KUALA LUMPUR – Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has called on all states not to neglect budgets allocated to their respective sports portfolios, as this hinders local sports progress.
She cited the cancellation of women’s futsal and women’s 10-metre platform diving events at the upcoming August Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak due to insufficient participating athletes in these categories.
Expressing further concern, Hannah revealed that certain states are resistant to receiving assistance in developing sports facilities due to apprehensions about shouldering high maintenance costs.
“For instance, when we propose assisting in the development of a swimming pool facility, which necessitates state government involvement. They rejected it citing the high maintenance costs.
“These are the challenges we encounter. Despite the importance of sports, some state governments are reluctant to invest. They prioritise and promote sports that are easier to maintain.
“Another example is upgrading football fields for leagues. Some states also rejected this, citing timing issues. However, I believe states need to take a proactive stance.
“We also encourage states to invest in large screens for sports programmes, as it contributes to sports achievements.
“However, there were instances where states requested funds from us to purchase these screens,” said Hannah.
Consequently, Hannah urged each state menteri besar and chief minister to consider allocating larger funds to their state sports portfolios for more effective implementation of development programmes.
“Success in any sport requires not only the involvement of the National Sports Council for entry into the Podium or Elite Programme but also grassroots involvement, necessitating state government participation.
“I appeal to chief ministers to ensure that they do not overlook the sports portfolio in their budget planning.
“In some cases, sports budgets for smaller states do not even exceed RM500,000.
“How can we pursue athlete and sports development without adequate investment?” she added. – April 19, 2024