Beyond the Trophy: SUKMAZ 4.0 Strengthen Bonds at IIUM Pagoh

By, Adriana Nabila

PAGOH, 25 May 2026: The Sports & Recreational Bureau, Mahallah Representative Committee of Mahallah Zaid bin Harithah, organised SUKMAZ 4.0: Where Friendship Leads the Way, an energetic three-week event that united students from May 2 to May 24. The programme encouraged sportsmanship as well as unity within the university.

Programme manager Amir Hazwan bin Mohd Zain expressed pride with how the event had turned out, mentioning that the energy surpassed his initial expectations. Despite a busy schedule filled with other university programmes, committees and athletes demonstrated exceptional time management.

“We wanted to send a message to all students to strengthen their friendship: that is the most important goal. The connections we build through this programme are what matters, despite winning or losing,” Amir stated.

While the programme achieved its objectives, the organising committees encountered several logistical challenges. Amir explained that the committee faced difficulties in securing equipment, such as canopies, during peak periods especially in this unpredictable weather. “Everyone struggled with the heat, especially during the outdoor games. However, we learned that we need to ensure better preparation and strategic planning for future events,” Amir added.

He also encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones, noting, “You never know until you try. Do not limit yourself, just engage in sports to improve your health. People will not judge even if you play poorly, as long as you are willing to try”.

The event featured a diverse range of sports, including chess, netball, e-sports, ping pong, badminton, swimming, track and field, tug of war, volleyball, shot put, futsal and various sukan rakyat.

Students embraced the lively atmosphere. “The energy here is exciting,” said one audience member. “This programme really helps to strengthen ukhuwwah.” Athletes also found personal value in the competition. Ammar Danish, a second-year student, highlighted the physical demands of the tournament, and the extreme weather, while others saw the event as a necessary escape from reality. Riefqah binti Mohd Azmi, a first-year student, shared that the games provided an effective way to maintain health and cope with academic stress.

Ahmad Naquib bin Syahmun, another first-year student, appreciated the platform provided by SUKMAZ to build new connections. “It is very fun. We get to meet seniors and students from other universities such as UTHM and Politeknik, because we are all here in Pagoh Edu Hub,” he said.

Reiterating these sentiments, the programme advisor highlighted the importance of the event during the closing ceremony: “This is where we deepen the bond between batches. SUKMAZ aims to build meaningful relationships among all students in addition to producing athletes”.***