KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) to expedite improvements to national sports schools, stressing the need for upgraded facilities and stronger support systems to develop elite athletes.
He said he had discussed the matter with Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh to reassess the current state of sports schools and training centres to ensure swift and adequate support.
“I’ve spoken with the minister to revisit issues related to sports schools,” said Anwar.
“Whatever support is required, we must ensure the standards are raised and the necessary facilities are provided — including at institutes and for any additional needs that may arise.”
Anwar made the remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Olympic House, the upcoming headquarters of the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM), in Bukit Jalil today.
In response, Hannah said her ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Education (MoE) to develop a blueprint for upgrading existing sports schools nationwide.
She added that KBS and MoE are also planning to establish specialised schools to nurture promising talent from the Orang Asli community.
“I fully support what the Prime Minister has said. Together with the MoE, we are reviewing data on the number of schools that need upgrading. We aim to ensure these schools are capable of producing more world-class athletes with elite mentalities in the years to come,” she said.
“Greater efforts are also being made to support the development of Orang Asli athletes across the country.” – August 7, 2025