Mawan presenting incentives to junior golfers Anson Yeo and Lim Beng Kiat while officials look on. — Photo by Muhamad Rais Sanusi
KUCHING: The hosting of Sukma 2016 is a mission that cannot fail. All sports facilities will be completed in time not just for the games but for Sarawak athletes to train prior to competition.
This was the assurance given by Social Development Minister Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom.
“Sarawak is fully prepared to host Sukma 2016. Facilities are about 80 per cent complete, definitely in time for training. Even organisations and associations involved in the various sports are fully geared up.
“As of now, we are very confident as the host. We will not leave any stone unturned,” he told reporters at his office yesterday.
While the selection of athletes has been finalised, he added, the identification of good talent is still on-going.
“If we stumble upon any good potential, we would include them but we have already selected the best of the best.
“We know who are taking part and we are training them. If necessary, we will spend money to get international coaches to make the best out of them.
He also emphasised the importance of Sarawak gaining the upperhand as host.
“That is why all facilities must be good and ready for training. It will give us ample time to train in the same facilities that will be used for the competition. As the host, we must have the advantage of homeground,” he stressed.
Earlier, he presented grants from the ministry to five sports associations.