Sarawak has stated that it will respect and abide by any final decision made regarding the proposed postponement of the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Selangor, following a royal suggestion linked to ongoing conflicts in West Asia.
Sarawak Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the matter remains a proposal at this stage and should be viewed as a postponement rather than a cancellation, given the uncertain global situation.
He noted that Sarawak has yet to receive any official confirmation from the Selangor government regarding the matter. However, he acknowledged that the suggestion was widely reported through media and social platforms.
Abdul Karim said Sarawak is prepared to accept the decision should Selangor proceed with postponing the games, stressing that the state understands the broader considerations involved.
He added that Sarawak has already made extensive preparations for the biennial sporting event, including financial commitments, athlete training programmes locally and abroad, as well as early logistical assessments.
The preparations also involved visits to all nine SUKMA host districts in Selangor to evaluate facilities and accommodation options, including homestays for contingents.
While expressing some disappointment over the possibility of a delay, Abdul Karim said national interest and current global circumstances must take precedence over sporting schedules.
He reiterated that the final decision rests with the federal government, the Selangor state administration, and the Youth and Sports Ministry.
Previously, the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah had suggested that SUKMA 2026 be postponed until the completion of Stadium Shah Alam’s redevelopment and until global tensions, particularly in West Asia, stabilise.
The Sultan also noted the high cost of organising the games and emphasised that postponement would be more appropriate under current economic conditions.
