KUCHING – Sarawak has allocated RM350 million for the organisation of 17 sporting events and the opening ceremony of the 2027 SEA Games, said Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
He said the allocation covers comprehensive promotional initiatives, training and coordination for working committees, as well as the provision of sports equipment to meet all technical and competition standards set by the Southeast Asian Games Federation (SEAGF), ensuring the Games are delivered at the highest level.
“Stadium Sarawak will host the 2027 SEA Games Opening Ceremony, highlighting the state’s capability and providing a platform to showcase its culture, unity and progress.
“Beyond symbolism, the event is expected to generate long-term socio-economic benefits through tourism, media exposure and community engagement, with planned stadium enhancements ensuring a legacy as a premier venue,” he said during his winding-up speech at the state assembly sitting here today.
In another development, Abdul Karim stated that Sarawak continues to strengthen its pathway towards becoming Malaysia’s leading sports powerhouse through targeted development of athletes, coaches and systems.
He said priority sports have been identified statewide, supported by systematic talent identification in schools and clubs, high-intensity training, competitive exposure and continuous upgrades to the Integrated Games Management System (IGMS).
”The Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) currently operates 290 Sports Development Centres, involving 5,983 athletes and 295 coaches.
”Throughout this year, SSC implemented various development programmes across multiple sports, supported by continuous coaching education and talent identification initiatives,” he said.
Abdul Karim added that a total of 54 Sarawak athletes have been selected to represent Malaysia at the 33rd SEA Games 2025 in Thailand, across multiple sporting disciplines. – December 2, 2025