KUALA LUMPUR: Johor is ready and has no problem hosting the next Malaysia Games (Sukma) in 2024, said its chef de mission Datuk Mohd Najib Samuri.

He said that based on the decision made in the previous Sukma Supreme Council meeting, which consisted of representatives from all 14 states, Johor had been selected to host the 2024 edition, after the state was unable to host the 2020 edition following the COVID-19 pandemic.

"However, the decision is not yet official until it is decided at the next meeting. In terms of infrastructure and all preparations, Johor has been ready since 2020 to host Sukma," he said when contacted today.

He said that for now, the southern state contingent is more focused on achieving the title of overall champion for the first time when leading the list of the 20th Sukma medal collection so far.

"We have never emerged as champions, so if we manage to emerge as champions for the first time, the aura may be different and I think we will be more enthusiastic to organise the next edition," he explained.

The ongoing 20th edition of Sukma is organised by National Sports Council (NSC), from Sept 16 to 24, in the Klang Valley.

Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu said NSC through the Supreme Council of Sukma will decide the next host, including the possibility of it being held in Kuala Lumpur for the second time in a row.

He believes that no matter where it will be organised, the biennial games will certainly run as a continuous effort by the federal government to ensure that the development of sports, infrastructure and sports facilities in all states are at an international level.

"Of course, Johor is on the list, so there is a chance (for the state) to be the host and no one will decline hosting (this sporting event)," he said when met by reporters at the 20th Sukma dinner yesterday.

"Thus far, only Kelantan has never hosted (Sukma) and Insya-Allah they will host the Games in 2026 and the federal government is working to prepare sports facilities such as a big stadium in Bukit Merbau and around the city of Kota Bharu," he explained.

-- BERNAMA