KUALA LUMPUR – The Petronas Sepang International Circuit (SIC) is set to host the opening ceremony for the 2026 Malaysia Games (Sukma).
Speaking to Scoop, the chairman of the Selangor Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Committee, Mohd Najwan Halimi said that the Selangor Sukma Secretariat aims to create a unique atmosphere compared to past editions of this biennial event.
It was previously believed that the Shah Alam Sports Complex (KSSA) would be the preferred location for the opening ceremony if it had been completed on schedule.
“The SIC will provide a unique experience, with the opening ceremony drawing inspiration from the Paris Olympics. Since the Shah Alam Sports Complex (KSSA) won't be finished until 2027 or 2028, the SIC is a fitting choice.
“Holding the opening at the SIC will showcase Selangor as a forward-thinking state both economically and administratively, while also strengthening its reputation,” he said when contacted.
In November, Selangor's Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari announced that the redevelopment of KSSA will take place in three phases, with completion anticipated by 2029.
The first phase, which is expected to finish by December 2026, involves tearing down the existing stadium and constructing the new KSSA.
The second phase is set to start in January 2027 and will feature a closed theatre, a youth and sports wing, and recreational spaces.
The final phase, projected to begin between January 2028 and December 2029, will include the development of an integrated transport terminal and a hotel.
Najwan has confirmed that the state government will not be constructing new venues for the upcoming games but will concentrate on upgrading the existing sports facilities in the state.
He said that preparations for the event are about 50% complete, with various initiatives in place to ensure everything runs smoothly.
“Currently, the state government is working on refurbishing and enhancing sports facilities, with increased efforts to speed up the repair and improvement processes. The goal is to have all facilities in top condition and ready for use by March 2026, including venues like the Darul Ehsan Aquatic Centre and others,” he said.
During the presentation of the 2025 Selangor Budget on November 15 of the previous year, Amirudin announced a budget allocation of RM6 million for sports development programs as part of the preparations for the 22nd edition of Sukma.
Selangor last hosted Sukma in 1998, when the state also won the overall championship. - July 9, 2025
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