Kota Kinabalu: Some 3,000 athletes are set to participate in the BIMP-EAGA Friendship Games 2026 scheduled on November 23-27 to be hosted by Sabah in Kota Kinabalu.
The event featuring Under-21 athletes will be staged in various venues across the State capital including the Likas Sports Complex and the Likas Aquatic Centre, as well as selected community halls and other sports facilities.
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A total of 98 gold medals will be available for grab from nine sports – archery, athletics, swimming, pencak silat, badminton, karate, E-sport, lawn bowl and sepak takraw
Sabah Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy (MySpaCe) Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said in a press conference on Tuesday that Sabah will be sending a 167-member contingent for the meet and he assured that all the venues will be ready and in good condition for the competitions.
He also said the games go beyond competition, serving as a meaningful avenue to foster friendships and goodwill among member countries of the BIMP-EAGA: Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia.
“With the participation of more than 3,000 athletes and officials, this games truly reflects the spirit of regional unity and togetherness that we deeply value.
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“Sport is a powerful vehicle for shaping character, instilling discipline and nurturing resilience among our youth, and the State Government remains steadfast in advancing youth and sports as key drivers of social progress and economic growth,” he said.
Meanwhile, organising chairman Datuk Mansur Asun, who is also the Ministry’s permanent secretary, expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him to lead the committee.
He also pointed out the event serves as an excellent opportunity to strengthen ties among BIMP-EAGA member countries while enhancing regional cooperation that is crucial for both social cohesion and economic advancement.
He hopes that the event will not only run smoothly but also leave a lasting impact on all participants.
