S'wak making preparations to host 2027 SEA Games opening ceremony, says Abdul Karim

The Star

27-05-2025

State Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah showing his winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly lobby.
KUCHING: Sarawak is making preparations to host the 2027 SEA Games opening ceremony, including learning from the 2025 edition in Thailand later this year, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The state Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister said Sarawak would serve as a direct host for the first time in SEA Games history, with the Federal Government agreeing for Kuching to host the opening ceremony.
"This is an honour that offers an opportunity to showcase Sarawak's cultural vibrancy, renowned hospitality and logistical capabilities to a global audience.
"As we prepare to welcome Southeast Asia's top athletes in 2027, we recognise that the SEA Games represents more than just competition. They embody regional unity, youth empowerment and the celebration of diversity," he said in his ministerial winding-up at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Tuesday (May 27).
To ensure world-class delivery, Abdul Karim said his ministry was planning a benchmarking visit to Thailand to observe and study the live operations of a major sporting event.
The 33rd SEA Games is scheduled to be held in Bangkok, Chonburi and Songkhla, Thailand, from Dec 9 to 20.
"The knowledge gained will help us refine our strategies for 2027.
"Ultimately, the SEA Games will not only inspire future athletes but also position Kuching as a central hub for international sports in Southeast Asia," he added.
Abdul Karim also said Sarawak will host the revived Borneo Games from Sept 24 to 28, featuring over 1,000 athletes and officials from Brunei, East and West Kalimantan, Sabah, Labuan and Sarawak.
He said they would compete in mainstream sports such as athletics, swimming, lawn bowls, archery and badminton, alongside traditional events like "menyumpit" (blowpipe) and "tarik tali" (tug of war).
"These games will celebrate Borneo's diverse heritage while fostering deeper connections among its peoples," he said.
With roots going back to 1954, the Borneo Games were last held in Labuan in 2013.
To ensure continuity, Abdul Karim said Sarawak had initiated the formation of the Borneo Games supreme council, comprising sports ministers and relevant agencies from participating nations, states and provinces, to govern future editions.
"Official invitations have been extended and final coordination is underway in collaboration with sports associations and implementation bodies, marking a new chapter for this regional sporting legacy," he said.