SHAH ALAM, Dec 23 — Malaysia Games (Sukma) 2026 in Selangor is set to be the main catalyst of economic growth in every district, said state executive councillor for housing and culture Datuk Borhan Aman Shah.
Using Pantai Batu Laut in Kuala Langat as an example, which will host sailing events, Borhan said the event won’t only attract visitors from Malaysia, but create economic opportunities for local residents.
“Sukma isn’t just a sporting event, but an economic catalyst. When these areas become the focus of the nation, (demand for) basic needs like accommodation, food and services will grow, and this could be beneficial for villagers.
“Among economic opportunities identified are homestays, local food production like chips (kerepek), local coffee brewing, and community-based petty trading,” he told Media Selangor.
Borhan, who is also Tanjong Sepat assemblyman, said the state government is focusing on upgrading Pantai Batu Laut to improve facilities for the sailing event at the biennial Games.
Sukma Selangor 2026 will be held from August 15 to 24, followed by Para Sukma from September 5 to 14. The opening ceremony will be held at the Sepang International Circuit while the closing event will be held at the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Stadium.
This Sukma edition features 474 events in 37 sports, including 30 core sports like rugby and seven additional sports like e-sports, cricket and silambam. The event will be held across nine districts under the jurisdiction of 12 local councils, except for track cycling, which will be held at the National Velodrome in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan.
Meanwhile, Borhan said the Selangor government will continue to develop affordable housing next year.
“Our target to build 200,000 units by 2028 remains a priority, with over 70,000 units realised so far under various state housing programmes like (Rumah) Selangorku, Harapan, and Idaman,” he added.
