KUCHING – Sarawak has allocated RM50 million to the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) as part of its preparations to host the 21st edition of the Malaysia Games (Sukma) next year.
The allocation, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said when tabling the budget at the state legislative assembly sitting today, was for the game’s operational aspects, such as developing sports talents, sports development activities and manning sports infrastructures.
He said the initiative comes under the ninth strategic thrust of the state’s Budget 2024, which aims to promote sports and youth empowerment.
“With our vision to become the nation’s sports powerhouse and commitment to develop and manage sports professionally, the government, through SSC, is consistently advancing our sports landscape from the grassroots level through collaboration with schools and other sports agencies,” he said.
In a bid to become the champions of Sukma 2024, he said a total of RM69.35 million is allocated to the Sarawak State Sports Council to provide their athletes with training, competitions and the latest sporting equipment.
Abang Johari said the state government will also allocate RM75 million for the refurbishment of existing sports facilities to meet international standards.
He added that the Sarawak Sports Village, the Cricket and Rugby Ground Petra Jaya and Wushu Centre, which are expected to be completed next year, would allow the state to bid and host major international events, such as the Borneo International Games, SEA Games and Commonwealth Games. – November 20, 2023