Malaysia Confirms 43 Sports for 2027 SEA Games
Malaysia has finalized a 43-sport program for the 2027 SEA Games, adding five new sports including kabaddi, lethwei, and ice hockey in the last round of approvals. The sports lineup is now locked and guidelines will be distributed to all 11
The sports program for the 34th SEA Games in Malaysia next year has been finalized, with 43 disciplines competing for medals after five new sports were added in the final stages: kabaddi, lethwei, tchoukball, padel, and ice hockey. Shinlum will also be added as a discipline under sepak takraw, and polo under equestrian sports. "Big Nat" Ao Ekachai Sirivat, vice chairman of the Thai Olympic Committee and honorary member of the SEA Games Federation, confirmed after the council meeting that no further sports additions will occur, and guidelines are being prepared for immediate distribution to all 11 member nations.
Ao Ekachai noted that during July 16-17, 2026, the Olympic Council of Malaysia hosted preparatory meetings with the SEA Games Federation at Sunway Resort in Kuala Lumpur. The Sports and Rules Committee reviewed appeals from all 11 national Olympic committees, receiving 30 sports proposals. The meeting approved five additional sports—kabaddi, lethwei, tchoukball, padel, and ice hockey—plus two new competition categories: shinlum under sepak takraw and polo under equestrian. Proposals for cheerleading and air badminton as demonstration sports were noted for future consideration.
Ao Ekachai also highlighted an important initiative approved for inclusion: water breaks during competition to promote athlete welfare and safety, particularly in the hot and humid Southeast Asian climate. Implementation will follow the technical specifications of each sport as detailed in the official technical guidelines and competition rules.
