HOSTING SUKMA CAN BOOST SPORTS DEVELOPMENT, STATE'S ECONOMY - NAJWAN

SHAH ALAM, July 23 (Bernama) -- The Selangor government’s decision to host the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) was made after considering the benefits and economic impact that the biggest biennial sporting event in the country can offer.

Selangor state Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurs committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi said the move was in line with the state government’s aspiration to elevate the quality of sports and the development of athletes in the state after having hosted the SUKMA in 1998.

Mohd Najwan added that hosting the biennial sporting event offers the potential to boost the tourism sector which is one of the six main sectors that can strengthen the economy of the state.

“Selangor has sports infrastructure that meets international standards and we are confident that through hosting the SUKMA, we can generate good economic revenue to the state and the people through the presence of fans and supporters from all over the country and even from South East Asia.

“We may have to spend money to host the games but from the point of impact and benefits, there will be significant returns," he said when met after officiating the Bizmatch Mega PKNS Programme at Dewan Raja Muda Musa, here today.

Last Thursday, the SUKMA Supreme Council that was chaired by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, had decided to pick Selangor as the host for the 2026 SUKMA which will be the 22nd edition.

Mohd Najwan added that hosting the SUKMA would also give Selangor the opportunity to upgrade the sports infrastructure and facilities in the state.

He added that the Shah Alam Sports Complex (KSSA) which is currently under construction would be the main venue for the SUKMA in 2026.

-- BERNAMA