Sukma not as popular as it was in the 90s
SUARA SINAR
During the early and mid-90s, the Malaysian Games or Sukma event was highly anticipated by Malaysians.
Not only adults but children also eagerly sat in front of the television to watch their favourite events.
Of course, sprinting events, especially the men's 100 metres (m), attracted attention.
Just mention Watson Nyambek and Azmi Ibrahim, who does not know the 100m icons from Sarawak and Pahang?
The fierce competition between these two sprint champions symbolised the excellence and spirit of the nation's sports athletes during that era.
However, in recent years, the popularity of Sukma was said to have declined.
Moreover, many were unaware that the 21st edition of Sukma was held in Sarawak.
Not only that, a survey on social media found that not many were talking about Sukma this time, let alone "battling" about which state would clinch the highest medal tally.
It is even more disappointing when two events, namely women's futsal and women's 10m platform diving, had to be dropped from this Sukma edition due to insufficient participation.
This is because according to existing regulations, a sports event required at least six competing states to proceed.
Nevertheless, the organisation of Sukma is still seen as relevant and competitive in nurturing grassroots athletes who achieved the highest performance in the country's sports.
The success of several young athletes representing their respective states in breaking national records proved that they were capable of achieving higher-level performances.
Sukma was first organised in 1986 in Kuala Lumpur and was seen as a platform to unearth new talents who would represent the country at the international level.
To reignite public interest in Sukma, many aspects can be improved, including scheduling to allow more people to attend the competition venues throughout the championship.
Therefore, for the upcoming edition, organisers needed to be more proactive in promoting Sukma to make it a sports event eagerly awaited by Malaysians, just like in the 90s.
