SUKMA XXII Cycling Breakthrough Paves Way For Kuching Velodrome

Sarawak’s historic cycling success at the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) XXII has accelerated plans for a velodrome in Kuching, with construction expected to begin next year. Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the project would provide Sarawak cyclists with a permanent training base following the state’s first-ever SUKMA cycling gold medals. A site has already been identified, and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has been briefed on the project. Abdul Karim said, "With our own facility, we can arrange programmes to further develop cycling, especially track cycling." This came after Adib Andhar Andan won the men’s keirin title, adding to Afif Darwysh Mohamad’s individual time trial victory, giving Sarawak an unprecedented cycling double. Abdul Karim described the achievement as remarkable, especially since Sarawak lacks a velodrome. He expressed happiness at Sarawak’s performance against states known for strong cycling, such as Selangor, Terengganu, and Johor. Beyond cycling, Abdul Karim remains optimistic about Sarawak’s chances of finishing among the top three in the remaining two days of competition. He credited Sarawak’s athletes for their medal-winning efforts, including standout performances by the men’s and women’s water polo teams. Abdul Karim also congratulated the athletes and praised Selangor for successfully organizing the biennial event despite financial challenges.