SHAH ALAM, Dec 26 — Selangor aims to leverage its hosting of the 22nd Malaysia Games (Sukma) 2026 to boost tourism and stimulate local economic growth by transforming athlete and spectator turnout into long-term tourism momentum.
Tourism Selangor chief executive officer Chua Yee Ling said the agency will work closely with relevant stakeholders and local authorities to drive tourism activity statewide through a decentralised, multi-district hosting model, ensuring the economic benefits of the Games are more evenly distributed.
She said with the Shah Alam Stadium undergoing major upgrading works and unable to host Sukma events, the state government has turned the challenge into an opportunity by adopting a more forward-looking hosting strategy.
“Instead of centralising events, competitions will be distributed across sports complexes and venues in different districts. This cross-district hosting approach has clear benefits for tourism development,” she said in an interview with Media Selangor.
Chua added that hosting events across multiple locations would draw visitors into different districts, giving each area the opportunity to showcase its unique tourism offerings.
“Spectators and visitors will not only attend the competitions, but also have the opportunity to experience local culture and attractions in each district."
She noted that Selangor’s blend of modern urban appeal and rural natural landscapes offers visitors a more diverse and enriching travel experience.
“Beyond athletes, family members of state contingents, supporters and sports enthusiasts will also be coming to Selangor. We must be fully prepared to deliver a complete tourism ecosystem that leaves a lasting impression on visitors."
Leveraging Sukma for long-term tourism strategy
State executive councillor for local government and tourism Dato’ Ng Suee Lim said the state government has already begun comprehensive promotional and preparatory efforts to position Sukma as a key platform for advancing sports tourism.
He said Selangor has long been at the forefront of smart city development and will ensure that both physical infrastructure and service quality meet high standards.
“Upgrading works at sports facilities are progressing steadily. We will ensure the Games are conducted smoothly and that athletes, coaches and contingents from across the country experience Selangor’s vibrancy and professionalism."
Ng said Sukma is not merely a sporting event but also an important economic catalyst for the state, adding that the government will seize the opportunity to systematically integrate tourism elements into the Games.
"We warmly invite the public to explore Selangor’s various districts while attending the competitions and experience the state’s diverse attractions.”
Sukma 2026 will take place from August 15 to 24, followed by the Para Sukma from September 5 to 14. The opening ceremony will be held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), while the closing ceremony will take place at the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Sports Complex.
The Games will feature 37 sports and 474 events, making it the largest edition of Sukma to date. In addition to traditional core sports, seven new events have been introduced, including e-sports, cricket and silambam.
Competition venues will be spread across nine districts and 12 local authorities in Selangor. Only events requiring velodrome facilities will be held at the National Velodrome in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan.
The Selangor government has allocated RM100 million to fund planning, upgrading and enhancement works, with the aim of delivering the Games to the highest standards.
