The competition takes place across nine divisions, namely Kuching, Samarahan, Serian, Sri Aman, Betong, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu and Miri, and serves as the ideal starting point for young athletes, aged 21 and under, to make a name for themselves.
For many, this is the moment to get into the national development programme, paving the way to becoming national athletes who could one day elevate Malaysia's name on the world stage, perhaps even ending the nation's wait for its first Olympic gold medal.
With over 12,000 athletes from across Malaysia, including Brunei as a guest contingent, the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS), and particularly the National Sports Council (NSC) are provided with ample opportunities to scout for the country's next sports stars.
Although this 21st edition of of the biennial games officially kicks off this Saturday, the battle has already begun since Monday, with several events like road cycling, football, cricket, wushu and tenpin bowling starting early.
This edition will feature 37 sports, encompassing a total of 488 events--236 for men, 217 for women and 35 in mixed-gender categories.
A total of 25 sports will be hosted in Kuching, while Miri will be the venue for sailing, rugby, fencing, karate, pencak silat and softball. Sibu, Mukah and Bintulu, meanwhile will host the ultimate prize--men's football.
Sri Aman is expected to draw boxing enthusiasts, while Betong will witness feats of strength in weightlifting.
Since its inception in 1986, SUKMA has been held in Sarawak twice before--first in 1990, when it claimed their first overall championship, and again in 2016.
Sarawak also emerged as overall champions in 1992 when the games were held in Johor and 1994 in Perak.
However, the spotlight must also turn to other contenders, particularly Johor, who come ready to fiercely defend their reigning title as overall champions.
The focus is also on Selangor, who are eager to replicate their triumph as overall champions here in Sarawak in 2016, which marked their ninth title after 1988, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006 and 2013.
Terengganu are also dark horses, having previously claimed the overall championship in 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2018.
As the host, the state government has invested nearly RM300 million in upgrading and renovating all competition venues and logistics, a clear signal that Sarawak is serious about making history after offering several venues for the 2027 SEA Games.
The Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, will be special guests at the SUKMA 2024 opening ceremony at Sarawak Stadium on Saturday.
-- BERNAMA
