SHAH ALAM, Feb 11 — An overwhelming response has been recorded for the SUKMA 2026 Volunteer Programme, with 18,000 applications received in less than 72 hours since registration opened on Sunday.
Selangor sports executive councillor Mohd Najwan Halimi said the figure far exceeded the initial target of 5,000 volunteers, reflecting strong public support for the organisation of the prestigious sporting event.
He said all applications would undergo a screening process before selected candidates participate in a training programme conducted by the Selangor State Youth and Sports Department.
“From the opening of registration on Sunday until noon yesterday, we received 18,000 applications, which is well above our initial target of 5,000 volunteers.
“We will align the number of volunteers based on suitability and the needs of each locality and sport to ensure a balanced distribution.
“There is also the possibility of increasing the number of volunteers depending on requirements, as they will be involved until the Para SUKMA Games,” he said at the launch of the Selangor Road to Champion Para SUKMA 2026 programme here yesterday.
The event also saw the presentation of appointment letters to the Selangor Para SUKMA contingent and team patrons. Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lim Yi Wei was appointed as head of the Selangor Para SUKMA contingent.
Shah Alam mayor Datuk Mohd Fauzi Mohd Yatim and Sepang Municipal Council president Dr Ani Ahmad were named deputy heads of the contingent.
On Sunday, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari officiated the launch of the SUKMA and Para SUKMA 2026 Volunteer Programme at Dataran Kemerdekaan, Shah Alam.
Volunteers are expected to play a key role in ensuring the smooth organisation of SUKMA 2026, serving as the backbone of operations throughout the games.
The 22nd edition of SUKMA will take place from August 15 to 24, 2026, with the opening ceremony scheduled at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). Para SUKMA will be held from September 5 to 10, 2026.
A total of 474 events across 37 sports will be contested in nine districts involving 52 competition venues. Para SUKMA will feature 10 sports and 316 events, held in the Petaling and Klang districts.
