KUCHING, Aug 25 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim lauded the outstanding performance displayed by all athletes competing in the Malaysian Games (Sukma).
He commended the high fighting spirit exhibited by every athlete, which led to several national and Sukma records broken during this year’s Sukma.
Anwar noted that beyond striving for victory in the competitions, athletes maintained a strong sense of unity and forged close relationships between contingents.
“This remarkable sportsmanship and unity are what we aim to nurture. Sometimes, we hear of intense rivalries in sports between states, departments, regions, schools and universities.
“This spirit must be preserved, and it embodies the essence of ‘ihsan’ (compassion) in Madani. Congratulations to the people of Sarawak and all contingents for demonstrating such a high level of unity,” he said at the Sukma 2024 closing ceremony at Perpaduan Stadium here tonight.
Also present were Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, and Sarawak Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Also present was Selangor Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
Anwar congratulated Sarawak for emerging overall champions after winning 76 gold, 55 silver and 70 bronze medals.
He also challenged the Sarawak contingent to defend their title at the next edition in Selangor in 2026.
“Let’s see if Sarawak can maintain this performance at Sukma 2026.
“Sarawak is truly impressive, this is the spirit of ‘Segulai Sejalai’ (Together in Unity). Congratulations also to the Federal Territories for giving a strong challenge,” he said.
This is the fourth time Sarawak has won the Games, with previous victories in 1990, 1992 and 1994.
The Federal Territories finished second with 75 gold, 65 silver and 72 bronze.
The prime minister expressed his congratulations to the Sarawak government and all parties involved in pulling off Sukma 2024, which he called one of the best sporting events ever held in Malaysia.
“I extend my highest appreciation to young athletes for their achievements, as well as to the teachers, coaches, and everyone who worked tirelessly to make the 21st Sukma in Sarawak a success,” he said.
The 21st Sukma officially began August 17 and concluded last night. The Games were first introduced in 1986, and Sarawak previously hosted the biennial event in 1990 and 2016.
— Bernama
