Melaka: Nearly 10,000 participants took part in Sukan Melaka 2026, which featured nine main events contested at the state constituency level from May 24 until yesterday. Melaka chief minister, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, stated that the fourth edition of the state games included events such as football, sepak takraw, netball, basketball, futsal, badminton, snooker, dam aji, and konda kondi.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sukan Melaka has become a significant event across the state, uncovering new talent, fostering competition, and uniting the Melaka community. From this initiative, 492 athletes have been selected to represent Melaka at the 22nd Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Selangor. Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh expressed his desire to produce champions from local communities and elevate Melaka's reputation at the national level.

At the prize presentation ceremony of the Sukan Melaka 2026 Chief Minister's Cup and the launch of the Paya Rumput Wakil Rakyat Untuk Rakyat (WRUR) at Stadium Hang Jebat, other notable attendees included state senior exco for Housing, Local Government, Drainage, Climate Change and Disaster Management, and Paya Rumput assemblyman Datuk Rais Yasin, and state exco for Youth, Sports and Non-Governmental Organisations Datuk VP Shanmugam.

Ab Rauf emphasized that the celebration of success should extend beyond medals and trophies. The state government is committed to nurturing talents, guiding athletes, and providing opportunities for their growth. This year, more than RM10 million has been allocated to upgrade and develop new sports infrastructure across Melaka.

Efforts include upgrading badminton halls, constructing archery ranges, and enhancing community sports facilities in every state constituency. The goal is to provide young individuals in villages, housing estates, and throughout the state with the space and opportunity to showcase their abilities and realize their potential.