KUALA LUMPUR – In a transformative journey spanning nine months, the Youth and Sports Ministry has embarked on an ambitious path to rejuvenate and reshape the landscape of Malaysian sports.
Through 22 comprehensive reforms, the ministry has made significant strides in strengthening the sports ecosystem, making sports more inclusive, empowering youth, and increasing accessibility for all.
Some of these landmark reforms include the formation of the high-level committee (HLC) for sports with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi at the helm, simplifying the process for organising sports events, increasing the number of recognised sports from 51 to 103, and reclassifying combat sports as a school sports activity.
The ministry also partnered with the Football Association of Malaysia to support Malayan tiger conservation, donating RM1 for each ticket sold for Harimau Malaya matches.
“To further strengthen the sports ecosystem, the ministry launched the National E-Sports Development Guideline (NESDEG), disclosed approved funding allocations, established the Sports Dispute Committee, formed the Road to Gold Committee, and organised KBS Open Day.
“The ministry also developed the Safe Sports Code and made it mandatory for escort officers to accompany para-athletes at international competitions.
“The move is aimed at ensuring the safety and looking into the needs of para-athletes,” read its statement issued today.
Through the creation of a sports facilities directory, the ministry listed over 1,000 sports facilities it owns and operates throughout the country, making it convenient for the public and national sports associations to identify sports facilities located nearby for use.
In January, it organised big screen showings to give access to the public to enjoy live sports events while cultivating an interest in sports among the younger generation.
In May, it offered free swimming classes to B40 children under the Basic Sports Training Skills Programme (Klas Renang) to reduce the incidence of drowning.
In July, facilities under the Malaysia Stadium Corporation were announced to be open to schools for their sports day.
In August, the ministry launched the Rahmah Sports Initiative to make sports items more affordable and launched the 1 Sport, 1 Facility initiative to secure permanent training grounds for the national sports association.
These reforms represent a significant commitment by the Youth and Sports Ministry to revitalise Malaysian sports, foster inclusivity, and empower the nation’s youth, all while enhancing accessibility to sports facilities and opportunities for athletes of all levels.
As the journey continues, these reforms pave the way for a brighter and more competitive future for Malaysian sports. – September 23, 2023