SHAH ALAM, Aug 5 — The Malaysia Games' (Sukma) Supreme Committee meeting today finalised several key decisions aimed at strengthening the participation of female athletes at the upcoming Sukma 2026 in Selangor.
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said the move is intended to address the lack of female athletes and technical officials observed during the Sukma 2024 edition in Sarawak.
"Each state contingent is required to appoint at least one female contingent leader or deputy leader. A minimum quota of 20 percent female support officers must also be implemented within the contingent’s secretariat and medical teams.
“We are also targeting at least 30 percent female volunteer participation and 20 percent female technical officials. For all women’s teams or events that involve physical checks, at least one female official must be registered,” she said.
Yeoh was speaking at a press conference following the meeting in Setia Alam today.
She added that the committee has also agreed that three technical and coaching courses for women must be conducted this year, followed by five more in 2026.
“For open events, participation by athletes of different genders will be made compulsory. Additionally, Olympic-listed sports will still be contested even if the minimum number of female participants is not met, which is a departure from previous regulations.
“Sukma Selangor 2026 will be the most female-friendly edition yet, with the current rules and upcoming changes set to be a game changer,” Yeoh said.
