KUALA LUMPUR: The Sarawak government is keen to host some events in the state if Malaysia decides to step in as the replacement organiser for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said this would, however, depend on whether Malaysia could afford to take on the games.
"It's still being debated whether we are going to be host (to the Commonwealth Games) or not. Personally, from the way I see it, if we can afford it, why not?" he was quoted as saying by "The Borneo Post" yesterday.
"But I would want to see some of the sports to be held in Sarawak because we are supposed to share all these events."
Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh yesterday said the cabinet would discuss whether Malaysia should host the 2026 Commonwealth Games on Friday.
The Australian state of Victoria, which was scheduled to host the games, withdrew last year citing escalating costs, which are expected to reach up to A$7 billion, and has reportedly agreed to pay A$380 million to Commonwealth Games Federation for breach of contract.