KUCHING — Sarawak is ready to roll up its sleeves and throw some punches as it gears up to host boxing for the 2027 SEA Games.
The state, which is co-hosting the regional sporting event, has proposed the Sri Aman Unity Stadium as the main venue for boxing — a decision driven by the electric atmosphere during previous competitions there.
“I definitely want it (to be held) in Sri Aman,” said State Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Bernama reported.
“I saw during the last Sukma that when boxing was held there, the supporters were extremely enthusiastic, especially when Sarawak athletes competed against other states.”
He made the remarks at his ministry’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house here today.
Abdul Karim, who also helms the Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts portfolio, added that while plans are underway to build Sarawak’s first velodrome, the facility won’t be ready in time for the SEA Games.
As a result, cycling events are likely to be shifted to Selangor.
“Nevertheless, the plan to build the first velodrome in Borneo will continue and be located in Kuching.
“I want the venue to be multi-purpose – apart from cycling events, it should also be for meetings or other events. We don’t want sports facilities to be built for just one function,” he said.
A total of 36 sports have been slated for the 2027 SEA Games. Of those, 18 will be held in Sarawak, 15 in Kuala Lumpur, four in Penang, and one in Johor. — April 6, 2025