SIBU: Track and field events have been excluded from Sukan Sarawak (Suksar) next year.
Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, cited the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exams as the primary reason for this decision.
“Most of our athletes are currently in Form 5, and we don’t want their preparations for March’s SPM exams to be impacted. That’s why track and field won’t be part of SUKSAR next year,” Rentap told reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of Sibu Open Track and Field Championship 2023 at Azman Hashim Sports Complex here yesterday (Nov 19).
The championship saw a remarkable turnout, with 900 athletes from Sarawak, Johor, and Brunei. Organised by the Sibu Division Amateur Athletics Association, the event also served as a test for the electronic timing system ahead of the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA).
“We’re using this opportunity to test our timing system. With around 250 days until SUKMA, this is our chance to prepare, scout new talents, and assess our technical readiness.
“We aim to have more technical officers from Sarawak instead of relying on foreign expertise,” he added.
Expressing gratitude towards the sponsors, Rentap emphasised the role of partnerships in nurturing athletic talent.
“Collaborations with the Sibu Division Amateur Athletics Association and Sarawak Sports Corporation are crucial for discovering and developing new talents, especially with SUKMA on the horizon.”
