The 16th SEA Youth Athletics Championship in 2024 will be hosted by Sabah, a decision entrusted to the state by the Malaysian Sports Union (KOM). This prestigious event will welcome approximately 500 to 600 young athletes from 11 Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, with Malaysia contributing around 100 participants.
Read Also: For the Second Time, Indonesia Will Host the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup
Sabah is gearing up for the championship with a substantial RM12.24 million budget allocated to upgrade the Likas Stadium, ensuring it meets international standards. The event not only highlights the region’s athletic talent but also reflects Sabah’s commitment to excellence in hosting large-scale international sports gatherings.
The 16th SEA Youth Athletics Championship will take place from November 21 to 25, 2024, at the upgraded Likas Stadium in Sabah. The event will feature a wide range of track and field competitions, bringing together approximately 500 to 600 athletes from 11 Southeast Asian nations.
Spectators can look forward to five days of intense competition, where young talents aim to achieve personal bests and set new records. With Malaysia as the proud host, this championship not only highlights athletic excellence but also showcases the cultural and natural beauty of Sabah.
The 16th SEA Youth Athletics Championship will bring together young athletes from 11 nations across Southeast Asia, highlighting the region's athletic talent and fostering international camaraderie. Participating countries include Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Timor Leste, Malaysia, and more.
With an estimated 500 to 600 athletes competing, the championship provides a platform for emerging sports stars to shine on an international stage. As the host nation, Malaysia is set to field around 100 athletes, showcasing its dedication to developing and supporting young talent in athletics.
Sabah is set to host the 16th SEA Youth Athletics Championship, with careful planning and significant infrastructure investments underway. The state government has allocated RM12.24 million to upgrade Likas Stadium, ensuring it meets the requirements set by international sports governing bodies.
These enhancements include improvements to the track, seating areas, and other key amenities, providing a world-class environment for both athletes and spectators. The upgrades are designed to not only support the championship but also leave a lasting legacy for Sabah’s sporting future.
With the stadium renovations progressing on schedule, local authorities and event organizers are confident in delivering a seamless and memorable experience. The efforts reflect Sabah’s commitment to excellence in hosting international events, showcasing the state’s ability to manage large-scale competitions. As the centerpiece of the championship, Likas Stadium is set to provide a spectacular setting for Southeast Asia’s finest young athletes to shine.
The successful organization of the 16th SEA Youth Athletics Championship is driven by the collaborative efforts of key figures and stakeholders. Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim, President of the Malaysian Sports Union (KOM), has played a pivotal role in entrusting Sabah with the honor of hosting this prestigious event. His leadership highlights Malaysia's commitment to promoting youth athletics on an international stage.
Read Also: Back on Top: Indonesia Wins Big and Dominates AFF Futsal 2024
Datuk Ellron Angin, Sabah’s Minister of Youth and Sports, has been instrumental in preparing the state for the championship. He spearheaded the presentation of a detailed working paper to secure a RM12.24 million budget for upgrading Likas Stadium.
Alongside other notable figures such as Tuan Mohd Asneh bin Mohd Noor, Director of the Sabah State Sports Council, and Mr. Terrance Edward Pudin, CEO of the Sabah Sports Board, their collective efforts are ensuring the event’s seamless execution and success.
