SHAH ALAM, June 13 — Guidelines for the organisation of the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA), particularly outdoor events, will be finalised soon in anticipation of hot weather conditions and the El Nino phenomenon.
State executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi said the guidelines are being coordinated with the National Sports Council (MSN) and National Sports Institute (ISN), including preventive measures, risk management and athlete health monitoring.
This will be done based on the views of relevant technical bodies, he said.
“The Selangor SUKMA Secretariat always takes athlete safety seriously throughout the games. For outdoor sports, competition schedules will be arranged taking into account current temperature conditions and, as far as possible, avoiding events during peak heat hours.
“Water breaks will also be provided for athletes. This is important to ensure sufficient hydration and reduce the risk of dehydration during competition,” he told Media Selangor.
Najwan said any adjustments to training or competition schedules will be made according to current conditions and the recommendations of national sports associations acting as technical bodies for each event.
“The organisers have the flexibility to assess the current situation, including changing competition times, postponing or rescheduling events if weather factors require such action.
“That decision will be made based on the assessment of technical parties and relevant agencies, prioritising the safety and welfare of athletes, team officials, volunteers and all involved."
In addition to weather risk management, he said the secretariat will also ensure medical facilities, health personnel, rest areas and hydration facilities are provided at every competition venue.
“Continuous monitoring of weather conditions and participants’ health will be carried out throughout the games to ensure all events can be conducted in a safe and conducive environment."
On Thursday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said grassroots preparedness in dealing with the El Nino phenomenon must be strengthened, as early prevention and preparation are the best defence against increasingly unpredictable extreme weather.
The 22nd edition of SUKMA is scheduled to take place from August 15 to 24, while PARA SUKMA will run from September 5 to 10.
A total of 469 events across 37 sports will be contested in nine districts involving 52 venues for SUKMA, while PARA SUKMA will feature 10 sports and 316 events in the Petaling and Klang districts.
