KUCHING: Sarawak's selection as the host for the XXI Malaysian Games (SUKMA) not only acknowledges its efforts and commitment to advancing sports but is also expected to bring a range of positive benefits.

Sarawak's Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, expressed immense pride with its organisation, stating that Sarawak has successfully demonstrated its ability to strengthen unity through hosting the event.

He mentioned that it will also bring economic benefits to the local community, as well as provide opportunities for young people, especially athletes, to experience and appreciate the rich traditions and culture of the region.

"We are deeply honoured to be the host, even though it wasn’t originally Sarawak's turn. However, in the spirit of Malaysian unity and for the development of sports and our youth, Sarawak is proud to step up and host the event.

"The SUKMA Games foster a spirit of patriotism by bringing together various states and ethnic groups on a single platform. That is why I suggest holding the events in different regions to expose young people to the diverse cultures and ethnicities in Sarawak," he said.

He said this during the opening ceremony of the XXI Sarawak SUKMA 2024, which was officiated by the Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, at the Sarawak Stadium in Petra Jaya on Saturday.

In his speech, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari also emphasised that hosting this prestigious event serves as a platform to identify and nurture young sporting talent, while also motivating them to achieve success at higher levels.

"Through this event, we will witness sporting stars showcasing their talents and abilities. Every race, throw, and competition is the result of intensive training and unwavering dedication.

"The athletes standing here are prime examples of what can be achieved with fighting spirit and high commitment," he added.

The event began with a captivating special performance featuring hundreds of cultural dancers and a performance by local singers, followed by a ceremonial march-past from each competing contingent.

This was followed by the raising of the SUKMA XXI 2024 flag and an oath-taking ceremony by the athletes, which completed the formal proceedings.

The highlight of the event was an extraordinary stunt featuring a 'Drone Bird' performance, followed by a torch relay by 'Kilat Boy' from Sarawak, Daeloniel McDelon Bong, and the lighting of the torch by the national diving queen, Dato' Pandelela Rinong Pamg.

The event was further highlighted by the presence of 11 renowned Sarawak sports icons, including Ramliee Ahmad, Watson Nyambek, Dieung Manggang, Daniel William Henry Bego, Abang Erdie Fazerul Abang Pauzan, Bryan Nickson Omas, Garcie Junita, Elizabeth Jimie, Traisy Vivien Tukiet, Ashey Lau Jen Wen, and Bertrand Rhodict Lises.

The official ceremony concluded with a spectacular five-minute fireworks display that lit up the sky over Petra Jaya, followed by a performance by guest artists.

The grand occasion was also attended by the wife of the Governor of Sarawak, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, the wife of the Sarawak Premier, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma'ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, the President of the Senate, Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh Tseow Suan, Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development of Sarawak, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, along with other Ministers, Chief Ministers, and distinguished guests.-UKASnews