MALAYSIA READY TO HOST APG 2027, SAYS MOHAMMED TAUFIQ 

From Farah Najihah Zuraimi

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is on  track with a high level of preparedness to shoulder the responsibility of hosting the ASEAN Para Games (APG) 2027, said Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari.

He said the confidence was also shared by the leadership of the ASEAN Para Sports Federation (APSF) following a meeting held with the governing body earlier today.

“I had the opportunity to meet with APSF earlier, and the meeting was very positive. They expressed that Malaysia is already on the right track and is ready to host APG 2027,” he told a media conference reviewing the performance of athletes at APG 2025 here today.

According to Mohammed Taufiq, the national contingent’s success in surpassing its medal target at the biennial Games also reflects the outcome of long-term efforts involving comprehensive cooperation among athletes, coaches and agencies under the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS).

“This medal target was not achieved in a short period. It is the result of the athletes’ continuous struggle, the support of coaches, as well as cooperation from MSN, ISN (National Sports Institute) and the entire national sports ecosystem,” he said.

Commenting on Malaysia’s preparations as host, he said the focus is not only on athletes’ performance, but also on venue readiness and event management, including the opening and closing ceremonies.

Meanwhile, Mohammed Taufiq assured that sensitive issues such as athlete classification will not be taken lightly when Malaysia hosts the Games.

He also announced that the Kampung Pandan Centre of Excellence will be upgraded with an allocation of RM5 million starting this year to enhance comfort and full-time training facilities for athletes as part of preparations for the upcoming APG.

In addition, Dr Mohammed Taufiq said athletes who recorded outstanding achievements at APG 2025 are eligible to receive incentives under the Malaysian Athletes’ Victory Reward Scheme (SHAKAM) in recognition of their success in bringing honour to the nation.

He stressed that the provision of incentives reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding athletes’ welfare and ensuring they remain motivated to maintain performance at the international level.

-- BERNAMA