KUALA LUMPUR — The government will amend its Sports Development Act 1997 to include new provisions on anti-doping and sports integrity, as part of efforts to tackle corruption and strengthen ethical standards in the sporting arena.
Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) secretary-general Datuk Dr Nagulendran Kangayatkarasu said the proposed amendments are expected to be tabled next year to better address corruption-related issues under the government’s sports integrity drive.
He announced the plan after officiating at the Asean Sports Integrity and Anti-Doping Symposium 2025, held in conjunction with the 47th Asean Summit in Labuan, Bernama reported.
More than 100 participants from 14 countries — including Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Australia and the Philippines — attended the symposium, part of Malaysia’s Youth and Sports Development programme under its Asean Chairmanship this year.
In his speech, Nagulendran said issues related to sports integrity go beyond rule violations, as they can undermine the essence and spirit of sportsmanship.
“Integrity breaches not only compromise fair play but also pose risks to athletes’ health and damage global perceptions of sports. Therefore, it is crucial that the sports ecosystem be safeguarded through the creation of a ‘clean sport’ environment free from prohibited substances and methods,” he said.
He added that the proposed amendments reflect Malaysia’s commitment to maintaining a transparent and ethical sporting environment.
Nagulendran also reminded athletes to avoid consuming traditional performance-enhancing substances often marketed as energy boosters, warning that these may contain banned steroids.
“Athletes must be cautious and responsible because taking such substances can lead to disqualification or permanent bans from major sporting tournaments,” he said.
He said the symposium serves as an important platform to provide guidelines, education and awareness on upholding integrity in sports, in line with global standards on anti-doping practices.
Nagulendran added that the ministry continues to strengthen its safe sports initiatives by addressing issues such as sexual harassment, and smoking and vaping within KBS premises.
“We are paving the way for athletes to voice their concerns through proper channels, ensuring they are protected and empowered within a safe sporting ecosystem,” he said.
The symposium featured sessions on the implementation of the World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards 2027, value-based education, match-fixing prevention and sports governance.
Among the participants were representatives from Asean member countries, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), Japan Anti-Doping Agency, Korea Anti-Doping Agency, Sport Integrity Australia, the Asian Football Confederation, the Badminton World Federation, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the Asean Secretariat, the Olympic Council of Malaysia, the Paralympic Council of Malaysia, and various other sports associations. — October 29, 2025