PENANG aims to sustain its strong showing at the 2026 Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Selangor while grooming a new generation of sporting talent, says state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi.
“We set a target of 40 gold medals in Sarawak and achieved 41, finishing fourth overall. That gives us confidence going into the next Sukma,” he said during a recent interview session with Buletin Mutiara.
Gooi said both experienced and emerging athletes are expected to rise to the occasion.
“We believe previous silver and bronze medals can be converted into gold, but we do not want athletes to feel undue pressure,” he added.
He mentioned that close collaboration with sports associations remains key.
“We engage regularly to understand challenges and share best practices. This strengthens our talent pool,” he said.
Despite its size, Penang continues to hold its own, he noted.
“We are not far behind bigger states and continue to produce athletes capable of competing at higher levels,” he said.
Gooi said that increased competition and funding have boosted athletes’ exposure.
“Events were held almost every week last year, with RM1.2 million allocated for community sports and RM1.1 million in matching grants secured, on top of state allocations,” he said.
He stressed that athlete welfare remains a priority, with support in areas such as scholarships, tuition and career development.
“We want our athletes to succeed not only in both sports but also in their future careers,” he said.
On Sukma, Gooi said there are no major new sports, although some category changes are expected.
“Pickleball will not be included this time, though disciplines like chess, including e-sports formats, are growing,” he said.
He underscored the importance of inclusive development.
“We support all sports, including those not contested at Sukma, and para sports are now under the State Sports Council,” he said.
Gooi pointed out that key performance indicators (KPIs) have strengthened management and drawn corporate support.
“This enables better training, exposure and access to equipment,” he said.
He added that underperforming sports will not be sidelined, adding that all sports will be treated fairly.
“Our focus is on performance, mental strength, nutrition and overall readiness,” he said, adding that preparations have begun.
Gooi highlighted combat sports as a continued area of strength.
“Silat, karate, judo, boxing and wushu remain our key contributors, but other sports also have potential,” he said.
He also reminded athletes to stay focused and avoid injuries, noting that the key is balanced preparation.
” I believe that our athletes have the full support of Penangites to shine,” he concluded.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian