By Sofia Nasir
SHAH ALAM, Feb 24 — Selangor is prepared to review the provision of athlete allowances to ensure the state does not continue to lose sporting talent.
State executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi said that athlete allowance rates vary by state, which can serve as an incentive to attract athletes, particularly those with high potential.
“We acknowledge that allowance rates do differ. States with a strong commitment to sports development can attract athletes from other states.
[caption id="attachment_391071" align="alignleft" width="442"] State executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi speaks during the Selangor State Legislative Assembly session in the State Secretariat Building in Shah Alam, on February 24, 2025. — Picture by MOHD KHAIRUL HELMY MOHD DIN/MEDIASELANGOR[/caption]
“We are currently assessing the need to review these allowances. We do not want to lose sporting talent, especially athletes with great potential,” he said during the Selangor State Legislative Assembly session today.
Najwan was responding to Taman Medan state assemblyman Dr Afif Bahardin's additional query on the allowance rates for Selangor athletes compared to those in other states.
Meanwhile, the councillor said the state government aims to standardise allowances for para-athletes to ensure they receive equal amounts and treatment.
Allowances for para-athletes fall under the Youth and Sports Ministry's jurisdiction, resulting in differences in administration.
“There are indeed differences, but the state is striving to align these allowances so that para-athletes receive equal treatment.
"We will discuss this further, as there are jurisdictional differences,” he said.