Pahang: The Pahang state government has requested immediate decisions regarding any changes in the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) competition venues in Selangor to avoid additional costs due to early reservations made.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Pahang Communications and Multimedia, Youth, Sports and Non-governmental organisations Committee chairman Fadzli Mohamad Kamal stated that the request was made following the organisers' decision not to have an athlete village and the proposed change of competition venues from privately owned facilities to public sports facilities.

Fadzli highlighted the urgency of receiving prompt feedback from the host, as accommodations have already been booked. Any changes to venues would result in additional costs that would need to be rearranged. He made these comments while speaking to reporters at the 2023/2024 Pahang Sports Awards ceremony at Sultan Ahmad Shah Silver Jubilee Hall.

He further explained that any change in competition locations would have additional financial implications on the state government, which plans to send a contingent of 1,000 members, including over 700 athletes.

Fadzli also expressed hope that all events agreed upon for the 2026 SUKMA would be retained to prevent losses to athletes and state contingents that have been preparing for over two years. He noted that Pahang's target for the Games was still being refined with Pahang contingent chief Khaizulnizam Mohd Zuldin, who is assessing the performance of each sport.

He concluded by mentioning that while the target exists, it has yet to be announced. The contingent chief plans to visit all training centres for a more accurate assessment, as there are some events in which they will not be competing this time.