SHAH ALAM, Aug 16 — Performance at the Malaysian Games (SUKMA) isn’t measured by just medal hauls, but also opportunities provided for each talent to grow regardless of ability, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
He added that Selangor wants to build a more inclusive sports legacy by respecting each athlete’s capability and ensuring all sportspeople, including para-athletes, are given chances to achieve their potential.
“For Selangor, excellence cannot only be measured based on who stands tallest on the podium; excellence must also be measured by how far our opportunities go, respecting the abilities of each person, and ensuring each talent has space to grow,” he said in his speech at the SUKMA opening ceremony last night.
Earlier, Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah officiated the opening ceremony at Dataran Kemerdekaan here, marking SUKMA’s return to Selangor after 28 years.
Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah officiates the SUKMA opening ceremony, marking the event’s return to Selangor after 28 years, at Dataran Kemerdekaan in Shah Alam on August 15, 2026. — Picture by FIKRI YUSOF/MEDIA SELANGOR
Amirudin added that para-athletes have proven that one’s abilities cannot just be assessed from a physical standpoint.
“They have proved that diligence, courage and mental fortitude can bring someone far beyond what was once considered impossible.
“They aren’t just participants in this event, but there are also high-performing (athletes), commanding competitors, and an inspiration to the entire nation,” he said.
According to him, SUKMA’s success must also be evaluated based on its long-term effects, especially in shaping a younger generation that is courageous, disciplined, and confident in chasing dreams.
A fireworks show lights up the SUKMA opening ceremony at Dataran Kemerdekaan in Shah Alam on August 15, 2026. — Picture by AHMAD ZAKKI JILAN/MEDIA SELANGOR
Amirudin said the legacy Selangor wants to build isn’t just based on infrastructure, medal hauls or numbers, but also in its ability to build a generation that dares to dream, perseveres, and are confident in becoming champions.
“We want youth who watch this championship to see not only a contest, but a possibility.
“We want them to believe that with proper discipline, effort, and opportunities, no dream is too far away and no success is impossible,” he added.
SUKMA Selangor 2026 is held till August 24 with 469 events in 37 sports, while Para SUKMA will be held from September 5 to 14 with 316 events in 10 sports. Both divisions are set to uncover and develop young talent with the potential to compete on national and international stages.
As host, Selangor is targeting 80 gold medals.
