Defending SUKMA title top priority for new Sarawak Sports Corporation CEO

Mu’azamir speaking to reporters after a press conference on the 3rd Asian Doubles Squash Championship 2026 on June 15, 2026.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, June 15: Defending Sarawak’s overall title at the upcoming Malaysia Games (SUKMA) will be the immediate focus of newly appointed Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) chief executive officer Mu’azamir Jili as he settles into the role.

Mu’azamir said preparations for the Games are already progressing well, with his priority now centred on strengthening existing efforts and ensuring Sarawak remains on course to retain the championship.

“Right now, the priority is SUKMA. The time is not long, but I see the preparations so far are already at a good level.

“What matters is how I can help improve Sarawak’s chances of retaining the championship,” he told reporters after a press conference on the 3rd Asian Doubles Squash Championship 2026 here today.

With SUKMA taking precedence in the near term, Mu’azamir said attention would later shift to the SEA Games 2027 where Sarawak is expected to continue contributing to national sporting goals while enhancing its own organisational capabilities.

He also pledged to maintain the State’s standing as a proven host of major sporting events, citing the positive reception received by Sarawak for its management of previous tournaments, including SUKMA.

“I have been informed that many are impressed with Sarawak’s ability to organise major tournaments before this.

“Sarawak is now at a high level in sports hosting, and we want to ensure that standard is maintained,” he said.

Mu’azamir stressed that sporting success cannot be achieved by athletes alone, describing sports development as a shared responsibility involving coaches, associations, administrators and families.

He also noted that nurturing elite athletes requires sustained commitment over many years and should be viewed as a long-term investment.

“Producing an athlete is not easy. It requires a long process, sacrifice, tears and continuous effort,” he said.

As part of his early priorities, Mu’azamir said he intends to engage with State sports associations to better understand the challenges they face and identify areas where support and improvements are needed. — DayakDaily