By FARAH NAJIHAH ZURAIMI
KUALA LUMPUR, April 21 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia Games (SUKMA) Supreme Committee must thoroughly review the decree of the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, regarding the postponement of SUKMA 2026 in the state, and make a swift decision.
National sports analyst Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli said His Royal Highness’ concern over the impact of the crisis in West Asia was a far-sighted view that should be respected by all parties.
Pekan said that as the host state, the Sultan of Selangor’s view carries strong justification, as the current geopolitical situation could have a knock-on effect on the domestic economy.
“We must abide by the decree and, to me, when the Tuanku Sultan of Selangor has made the call, all parties have to discuss it properly, and the SUKMA Supreme Committee must look at it as a priority issue that needs to be decided promptly because the Games are scheduled to be held in August.
“We understand that if the crisis in West Asia continues and if we are still faced with an oil crisis in August, surely the costs will increase significantly,” he said when contacted by Bernama.
Pekan said the rising price index of goods and services could put financial strain on each state contingent, particularly those from Sabah and Sarawak.
However, he acknowledged the importance of SUKMA 2026 as a key platform for selecting athletes to represent the country at the 2027 SEA Games, which Malaysia will host.
“We also take note of the preparation for the 2027 SEA Games. If we postpone (SUKMA 2026), it could disrupt the preparation schedule for contingents and the selection at SUKMA for national representation.
“For example, at SUKMA 2022, which was also postponed, the effect on age eligibility requirements, where performances by athletes over 21 years old, was not taken into consideration,” he said.
Meanwhile, National Sports Council (NSC) director-general Jefri Ngadirin said an official statement will be issued by the Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari if there are any new developments.
Yesterday, Sultan Sharafuddin decreed that the hosting of SUKMA in Selangor should be postponed until the crisis in West Asia is over and until the reconstruction of the Shah Alam Stadium is fully completed.
Dr Mohammed Taufiq, meanwhile, said the ministry would seek the views of the Selangor State Government before a special meeting of the SUKMA 2026 Supreme Committee is held to discuss the matter in detail.
The Selangor government will consider the views of all state executive councillors at the State Legislative Assembly regarding Sultan Sharafuddin’s decree.
The 2026 Selangor SUKMA is scheduled to be held from Aug 15 to 24.
-- BERNAMA
