KUCHING – After 14 days of intense competition and displays of determination and passion from young athletes, the 2024 Malaysia Games (Sukma) will come to a close tonight.
The closing ceremony of the biennial Games, set to take place at the Unity Stadium in Kuching, will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
A key moment in tonight’s festivities will be the announcement of the Sukma 2024 Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year and the crowning of the overall champions of the Games, Bernama reported.
As of 10pm yesterday, Sarawak led the medal tally with 72 golds, 52 silvers, and 66 bronzes.
The Federal Territories trailed closely with 69 golds, 62 silvers, and 68 bronzes – followed by Selangor with 51 golds, 61 silvers, and 50 bronzes.
The event will begin with a vibrant “Sporty Dance” performance featuring 230 primary school pupils, followed by a cultural performance from Selangor, in recognition of the state as the host of the 2026 edition.
Performances by Sarawak-born singer Bob Yusof, the group De’Fam, and rock queen Ella are also on the programme.
One of the standout songs expected to energise the stadium is Standing In The Eyes Of The World.
Several roads leading to the Unity Stadium will be closed from 3pm today to ensure smooth traffic flow, including the Sesco roundabout, Kesuma Resort roundabout, the junction from Sumber Alam to the Unity Stadium, Jalan Diplomatik, the access road to Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre, and Jalan Stadium leading to the public parking junction.
The public is advised to avoid parking along the roadside and to plan their journeys using alternative routes to minimise congestion.
Sukma 2024 featured 37 sports, comprising 488 events, including 236 men’s events, 271 women’s events, and 35 mixed-gender events, drawing over 12,000 athletes and officials.
Sukma, which began in 1986, has previously been hosted by Sarawak in 1990 and 2016. – August 24, 2024