THE 120-day countdown to the upcoming 2026 Malaysia Games (Sukma) officially kicked off for the Penang contingent in a lively and spirited event held at Sunshine Central in Air Itam today.
Scheduled to take place in Selangor from Aug 15 to 24, Sukma 2026 will feature 37 sports comprising 30 core sports and seven additional events, including chess, e-sports, cricket and kabaddi, promising a dynamic and competitive sporting spectacle.
Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said that as the state marks 120 days to the national games, preparations are already in full swing.
“As we approach Sukma 2026, comprehensive and systematic preparations have been actively carried out by the Penang contingent.
“The Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP), together with various state sports associations, has developed structured and phased training programmes.
“These include regular performance monitoring, fitness assessments, as well as thorough technical evaluations to ensure our athletes are competition-ready,” he said in his speech.
He added that Penang athletes have also been given valuable exposure through participation in both national and international competitions.
“These platforms not only sharpen their competitive edge but also build confidence on bigger stages,” he said.
Also present at the programme were Deputy State Secretary (Management) Muhamad Ghopran Yeop Hamzah, MSNPP director Harry Chai Heng Hua, and Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang.
While emphasising performance and results, Gooi reminded athletes not to lose sight of the true spirit of sportsmanship.
“In our pursuit of success and medals, I want to stress that sportsmanship must remain our core foundation.
“Values such as discipline, integrity, mutual respect and teamwork must be deeply instilled in every athlete.
“Victories achieved through honesty and perseverance carry far greater meaning and will stand as lasting pride.
“After all, Sukma is not merely a platform for competition, it is a stage to build character, strengthen unity, and nurture a deep sense of love for our state and nation,” he said.
Gooi also expressed hope that every athlete selected to represent Penang will rise to the occasion with unwavering determination, courage in the face of challenges, and a commitment to give their very best in every event.
Reaffirming Penang’s ambitious target, he said the state is aiming to secure 60 gold medals at Sukma 2026.
“This target is not impossible. With careful planning, strong discipline, and an unyielding fighting spirit among our athletes and support teams, I am confident we can achieve it.
“Our target is high; 60 gold medals but it is within reach. We are placing strong hopes on combat sports, which we expect to be a major gold contributor and a key strength for the Penang contingent.
“At the same time, we hope other sports will also contribute at least one gold medal each to help turn this target into reality,” he added.
During the event, Gooi also announced the appointment of Ng as Chef de Mission (CDM), with Muhamad Ghopran named as Deputy Chef de Mission (DCDM) for Sukma 2026.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Alissala Thian