June 2024

By: Aisyah Sofiah Jafri PAGOH: This year, Sukan Mahallah Zaid Harithah (SUKMAZ) 2024 has set a new benchmark with its theme, “United, Unique & Inspire,” expanding the games lineup and forming strategic partnerships that elevate it to a national level. Organized by the Sports and Recreation Bureau of the Mahallah Representative Committee (MRC), SUKMAZ is taking place from May 23 to June 1, 2024, and offers an impressive variety of games and activities at multiple venues across the IIUM Pagoh Campus. SUKMAZ 2024 introduces exciting new activities, including chess, ping pong, futsal, volleyball, badminton, and e-sports competitions like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB). A special sukaneka event for staff has also been added, fostering engagement across all campus roles. Including these new activities highlights the organizers’ dedication to inclusivity, aiming to engage students who may not have previously participated and the staff who attended the event. A defining feature of this year’s SUKMAZ has been its partnership with Jabatan Sukan, Rekreasi dan Kebudayaan Majlis Perwakilan Pelajar (MPP) at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) Pagoh Campus. Their collaboration in promotion and participant engagement has elevated the event’s visibility and scope, broadening its appeal to a national audience. Collaborative efforts from various MRC bureaus, including the International and Culture Bureau, Welfare Bureau, and Entrepreneurship Bureau, alongside partners like the Sports Development Unit (SDU) and Markaz Syabab (ALUMNI), have been pivotal in making SUKMAZ 2024 a success. Adding to the prestige, this year’s event proudly acknowledges Dr. Mohamad Suhaizi bin Suhaimi, the principal of Mahallah Zaid Harithah, for his generous sponsorship of the House Cup and Moonton Student Leader for their diamond sponsorship of MLBB players. These contributions, alongside the involvement of 284 dedicated participants, underscore the growing significance of SUKMAZ within the campus community and beyond. The program kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony on May 23, 2024, at Café Mahallah Zaid Harithah, attended by esteemed guests including Sir Muhammad Nazirul bin Mohd Noor, the program advisor; Sir Mohd Ton bin Ab Halim and Miss Nurul Syafiqah binti Hasbullah, Mahallah fellows; Sir Mohd Hishamuddin, assistant sports instructor; Br. Ainul Harith bin Zakaria, MRC President for 2023/24; and Sr. Nik Nur ‘Umairah binti Nazri, MRC Vice President for 2023/24. The ceremony featured an opening speech from Sir Muhammad Nazirul, the symbolic handing over of flagships from representatives of each year level, and performances from Alunan Sukma and Symphony Band. Adding to the festivities was SUKMAZ 2024’s beloved dinosaur mascot, which captured the audience’s attention. Indoor and e-sports games, including Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, chess, badminton, and ping pong, kicked off at Café Mahallah Zaid Harithah and Kompleks Sukan Pagoh on May 24, 25 and 30, respectively. The event then moved to the outdoor courts on May 31, where participants showcased their skills in intense volleyball and futsal matches. The SUKMAZ 2024 grand finale on June 1, 2024, took place at the Shared Facilities Stadium, where the crowd witnessed thrilling competitions in tug of war, sukaneka, shot put, long jump, and track and field events. Following the competitions, Dr. Mohamad Suhaizi bin Suhaimi, Mahallah Principal, presented awards to the winners in a lively prize-giving ceremony. Unfortunately, due to unexpected weather conditions, the closing ceremony could not conclude as planned, but the day left a lasting impression on all attendees. Br. Izzul Azzany bin Marzuki, the programme manager, expressed his gratitude by stating: “With new games and enhanced partnerships, we’re creating an experience that unites students and promotes a healthy, active lifestyle.” The energy and excitement surrounding SUKMAZ 2024 reflect Mahallah Zaid Harithah’s dedication to inclusivity, athletic excellence, and national engagement, setting a new precedent for campus sports events.