SABAH GOVT HAS ALLOCATED MORE THAN RM100 MILLION FOR SPORTS DEVELOPMENT - HAJIJI

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 28  (Bernama) -- The Sabah state government has allocated RM101.49 million for youth and sports development in the state next year, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

He said the allocation to the state Youth and Sports Ministry will go towards the management and implementation of various youth and sports development programmes,

The Chief Minister said the state government had also allocated RM12.24 million to upgrade the Likas Stadium facilities, including the running track.

“This is an ongoing process for all sports facilities throughout the state so that facilities remain conducive, safe, and comfortable for athletes and public use,” he said at the opening ceremony of the 16th SEA Youth Athletics Championship at the Likas Stadium here tonight.

Sabah Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Elron Alfred Angin read his speech.

Meanwhile, Hajiji said Sabah is honoured to host the 16th Southeast Asian (SEA) Youth Athletics Championship, a major sporting event that goes a long way to boost athletic standards and promote friendship between participants of competing nations.

“We will all benefit from this sporting event. For our Malaysian team, it is an opportunity to compete against the best from the region. We certainly wish to see our Malaysian athletes moving on to represent Malaysia at the higher level and at other prestigious championships.

“Over the years and up to recent sports championship events, Malaysian athletes, including those from Sabah, have made our country proud at the regional and international stage. Our government is proud of them and is always committed to supporting sports development, especially for young athletes,” he said.

Welcoming more than 200-strong athletes representing 11 countries, namely Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, the Philippines, Timor- Leste, Myanmar, and host country Malaysia, Hajiji said their presence here added to the significance and excitement of this Championships.

“You are all here to celebrate athleticism, teamwork, and the spirit of healthy competition. It is an opportunity for all athletes to showcase their talents and push their limits. As they compete, let us cheer for every one of them, recognising their efforts and dedication,” he said.

-- BERNAMA