Kota Bharu: Kelantan has appointed 16 new state coaches in preparation for the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Selangor in 2026. State Youth, Sports, Non-Governmental Organisations and Community Unity Committee chairman Zamakhshari Muhamad announced the restructuring of the coaching line-up, emphasizing changes in sports such as weightlifting, badminton, and cycling.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the restructuring also extends to artistic gymnastics, judo, archery, shooting, muay thai, pencak silat, sailing, squash, boxing, and wushu, with full-time coaches appointed for these disciplines. Additionally, part-time appointments have been made for indoor volleyball, tenpin bowling, and aquatic sports, reflecting a comprehensive approach to improve performance.

Zamakhshari stated that Kelantan aims to improve its ranking by two or three positions in the overall standings at Sukma Selangor, compared to their performance at Sukma Sarawak. In Sarawak, the Kelantan contingent won 37 medals, including seven golds, 13 silvers, and 17 bronzes, finishing 14th out of 15 contingents.

He further informed that updates on the construction of the Bukit Merbau Sports Complex (Madinah Ar Raidhah) and Kelantan’s preparations to host Sukma 2028 were presented at the Sukma Supreme Committee Meeting, chaired by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh. The meeting expressed satisfaction with Kelantan’s preparations, and the National Sports Council is expected to send an official appointment letter to Kelantan soon.