Penang: Penang is now entering the final phase of preparations for the 2026 Malaysia Games (Sukma), scheduled to be held in Selangor this August, according to a state executive councillor.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Health, Youth and Sports Committee chairman Daniel Gooi said the decision to proceed with Sukma 2026 has brought relief to the state contingent. Gooi stated, "Now we are in the final preparation stage with less than 100 days to go, so we are fully in preparation mode. So far, the state government has spent about RM4.5 million to prepare the Penang contingent for the games."

Gooi highlighted the financial and competitive implications if the games were to be postponed, emphasizing the potential loss not only in monetary terms but also in terms of opportunities for athletes. The decision to proceed was confirmed after the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, consented to a more prudent and cost-saving approach for Sukma 2026.

Gooi expressed confidence that the games will be organized modestly, focusing on cost efficiency without compromising the quality of the competitions. He also mentioned that while the list of athletes and events has not been finalized, initial estimates suggest that a contingent of approximately 600 athletes from Penang will participate. The final list will be determined closer to the competition date following a shortlisting process.