He cited the high cost of travel and transport of equipment.

Speaking at a press conference after the state executive council’s weekly meeting, Sanusi said Kedah needs to transport “containers” of equipment.

“We are sending a contingent, but the costs involved are high due to the distance. I think the other states also face the same issue.

“The cost of participating in Sukma this year is higher than in previous years. We hope the host (Sarawak) can bear some of these costs. There is a lot of equipment involved.

“Despite the difficulties, we must participate anyway in the spirit of sportsmanship and making Sukma a success in Sarawak.”

Bernama reported Sarawak Sukma CEO and deputy state secretary Hii Chang Kee as saying preparations for the games are 90% completed.

Sukma 2024 will be held across the state’s nine divisions from Aug 17 to 24. A total of 37 sports will be contested, involving 488 events, with the participation of 12,619 athletes and officials.

This will be the third time the games are being hosted by Sarawak after 1990 and 2016.