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By Tedong Rantayy

MIRI, July 30: Athletes from Sarawak competing in the upcoming 21st Malaysian Games (Sukma) stand to receive incentives if they bring home gold medals.

Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Development (MYSED) and Chief of Mission (CDM) for the Sarawak Sukma contingent, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, hinted at the rewards.

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He was met earlier today during his visit to Miri Stadium.

However, the details of these incentives will be officially announced by Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“Our athletes are ready,” Gerald said.

“I’ve seen their preparation and I’m confident they can win.”

He stressed that while the rewards had been discussed, the Prime Minister would provide the official details.

“Win first,” he encouraged the athletes, adding that there are also initiatives from associations and individuals willing to provide rewards, especially for gold medals.

Gerald is currently in Miri City, inspecting the locations for the upcoming Sukma.

“I visited the Sukma facilities in Miri to see the venues that will be used and I am satisfied with the preparations, especially for sports such as karate, softball, sailing, rugby, sword fighting and pencak silat,” he revealed.

He also said that the rugby venue is 100 percent ready, pencak silat equipment is being installed and preparations for softball are about 95 percent complete.

Overall he was pleased with the accommodation and meals.

Sukma 2024 will be organized into nine divisions: Kuching, Samarahan, Serian, Sri Aman, Betong, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu and Miri.

This year, 37 sports will be played in 488 events, including 236 men’s events, 217 women’s events and 35 mixed events. A total of 12,619 athletes and officials will participate.

Sukma was introduced in 1986. Sarawak hosted the games in 1990 and 2016. — DayakDaily

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