Sukma significant beyond sporting arena — KBS

KUCHING: Sarawak’s decision to host the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma) and Para Sukma will have a significant impact beyond just the sports arena. This is according to Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) secretary-general Dr Nagulendran Kangayatkarasu.

“The selection of Sarawak as the host for the Sukma and Para Sukma will provide added value to the people of Sarawak, not only in terms of sports development but also in the tourism and socio-economic sectors with the presence of contingents from across the country,” he said at the launching ceremony of the national games on Saturday.

“Through the organisation of the Sukma and Para Sukma games, we aim to further strengthen the elements of national unity and integration across various ethnicities,” he added.

Dr Nagulendran also stressed the importance of implementing safe practices outlined in the Safe Sport Code, aiming to create a secure environment for athletes.

“I hope this event will serve as an example in creating a safe sports environment based on the Safe Sport Code launched by the Ministry of Youth and Sports,” he asserted.

He also commended the Sarawak government “for their unwavering support in hosting the largest sporting event of the year.” The upcoming Sukma and Para Sukma will further strengthen the development of national athletes, he added.

“Let us unite as one family, shoulder to shoulder, to make the 21st Malaysia Games a catalyst for a leap in the country’s sports development performance,” he said.

Dr Nagulendran was representing the Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh at the event.