KUALA LUMPUR — Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) president Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharudin has acknowledged that Malaysian para sports still have a long way to go before they can match the standards of more developed Asian nations.
Following an official visit from South Korean Paralympic Committee (KPC) president Jung Jin-owan today, Megat highlighted the vast difference in government support, particularly in terms of funding.
Speaking to the media, Megat said KPC receives approximately US$80 million (RM340 million) annually from its government — a figure that dwarfs PCM’s allocation of RM12 million (around US$3.5 million) for the development of elite athletes.
“The reason I say we can’t compete with them (South Korea) is primarily due to funding. KPC receives about US$80 million a year from their government. That’s a huge gap compared to what we get.
“Here at PCM, we receive around RM12 million annually. While there are some additional grants, this is the core amount allocated for our podium athletes,” he said.
He added that this funding disparity affects every aspect of para sport development — from infrastructure and athlete development to coaching expertise and international competitiveness.
“With their funding, Korea has world-class facilities, experienced coaches, and a strong development system. Through our bilateral ties, I hope our athletes and coaches can benefit from knowledge exchanges and exposure to Korea’s sporting ecosystem.
“Perhaps they can even share their success stories and winning formula with us,” Megat added.
Since debuting at the 1968 Paralympics, South Korea has won 134 gold medals. In comparison, Malaysia has secured eight golds to date.
Megat also revealed that following a successful exchange programme last year — which saw three para rowing athletes sent to South Korea — he hopes to expand the initiative.
“These athletes are not from the national Podium Programme. Last year, we sent three para rowers, and hopefully by early next year, we can send 15 to 20 more athletes,” he said. – June 5, 2025