State youth, sports and entrepreneur development minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said a huge sum had been spent on preparations, including logistics and bookings for accommodations.

“Deposits have been paid and our athletes have been sent all over, even overseas, for training,” he was quoted as saying by the Dayak Daily.

Karim also said postponing Sukma could result in many athletes being unable to participate as they would be over 21 years of age.

“We also do not know when the Middle East war will end. So a delay could result in the  games being pushed to next year or even later.”

On Monday, Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah suggested that the state postpone hosting this year’s Sukma due to the conflict in the Middle East.

The ruler said the state’s hosting of the multi-sport event from Aug 15 to 24 would incur considerable costs.

Earlier this month, youth and sports minister Dr Taufiq Johari said this year’s Sukma would be scaled down in light of the global energy crisis and ensuing economic impact.

Karim said he respected the suggestion by the Selangor ruler to postpone the games but the final decision must consider the broader implications affecting all states.

“It is not only Sarawak that has prepared (for the games). All states have made significant preparations, involving millions in costs. Many deposits are non-refundable and training efforts, including those conducted overseas, would go to waste if the games are postponed.”

Yesterday, the Kelantan government expressed hope that the 2026 Sukma will proceed as planned, even if on a smaller scale.

State youth, sports, non-governmental organisations and community unity committee chairman Zamakhshari Muhamad said postponing the games could directly impact state athletes’ performance and morale.

He also said the state government had been preparing for nearly two years since Sukma 2024 in Sarawak, with significant commitments in terms of time, effort and finances.