Defending champions Sarawak ready for Sukma XXII challenge in Selangor

KUCHING (Jan 7): Sarawak defending its overall champion title at the Malaysia Games (Sukma) XXII in Selangor this year will be the true test of the state’s champions’ credentials, said State Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

Reflecting on Sarawak’s triumph at the previous Sukma, Abdul Karim said that while winning the overall championship on home ground was a significant achievement, defending the title away from home would present a far greater challenge.

“Winning at home is one thing, but the real test is the next one when we go visiting,” he said, recalling remarks by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the closing ceremony of the last Sukma.

“If Sarawak can defend the championship this year, then they are really good. If they can’t, then that will say a lot too.”

Abdul Karim noted that Selangor, as host of Sukma XXII, will naturally field a large contingent and remains one of the most dominant forces in Sukma history, having won roughly half of the editions contested over the years — including titles secured even when the Games were held outside Selangor.

“We have to accept that Selangor is traditionally very strong in Sukma. As host, they will certainly send a bigger team.”

Nevertheless, Abdul Karim stressed that Sarawak will also be among the states fielding one of the largest contingents, with thorough preparations already underway to ensure athletes are ready for the challenge.

“Outside of Selangor, I believe Sarawak will be one of the states sending the biggest contingent,” he said.

“We will make sure everyone is prepared to defend the championship we won.”

With expectations high following last year’s success, Abdul Karim said Sarawak must embrace their status not only as contenders but as defending champions facing the toughest possible examination in Selangor.

“This is the real test. Defending the title away from home will show whether Sarawak truly belongs at the top,” he said.