KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10 (Bernama) -- More than RM580 million allocated for sports development under Budget 2026 is expected to boost preparations by athletes and stakeholders in the national sports ecosystem ahead of major international events.
Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria said the events include the 2027 SEA Games in Malaysia, as well as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
He said the allocation for preparations for the 2027 SEA Games demonstrates the government’s determination to ensure a successful hosting of the event.
“The Road to Gold (RTG) programme has also received an increase of about RM2 million. This is a great source of motivation for athletes who are working hard to qualify for the Olympics,” he told Bernama when contacted today.
Mohamad Norza also welcomed the government’s emphasis on infrastructure development, including the upgrading of school fields, which he described as a vital initiative for the grassroots sports community.
Paralympic Council Malaysia (PCM) president Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharudin expressed hope that part of the substantial allocation would strengthen podium programme for para-athletes and support grassroots development under the national para sports associations.
“I hope that with this large allocation, we can increase the number of athletes under the para podium programme from 83 to 150. Last year, RM12 million was allocated for the programme, and I hope this time we can secure RM25 million so that more para-athletes can be involved,” he said.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Deaf Sports Association (MSDeaf) president Ong Shin Ruenn said the allocation, which also includes provisions for empowering sports for the deaf, is highly meaningful for the community, which has been advocating equality and recognition in the national sports arena for nearly four decades.
“This move clearly reflects the government’s commitment to building an inclusive sports ecosystem under Malaysia MADANI,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
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