SHAH ALAM, April 10 — Selangor is pursuing moderation for the Malaysian Games (SUKMA) 2026 by optimising expenditure without compromising event quality and athlete preparations, said state executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi.
He said the state government will comprehensively control spending, including by reducing non-critical elements of ceremonies.
“The existing allocation will be fully optimised, prioritising aspects that directly impact athlete performance and well-being and competition quality,” he told Media Selangor.
“We will still hold the (opening and closing) ceremonies as the tournament atmosphere is important, but with a more moderate approach. Elements like fireworks and the use of certain technologies will be reduced.
“What’s important is that we don’t spend in excess, but maintain the balance between merriment and efficient spending,” Najwan added.
Earlier today, he attended a SUKMA Supreme Committee meeting chaired by Youth and Sports Minister Mohammed Taufiq Johari in Putrajaya today.
Najwan said the committee agreed the event must continue, after having considered various aspects including the level of preparations already done and athlete readiness.
He added that allocations for SUKMA haven’t been cut, but the state government is looking to lower costs with meticulous planning and more effective controls.
“For example, if an event is estimated to cost RM10 million to organise, we will aim to lower spending to around RM5 million to RM7 million without affecting main requirements,” he explained.
Najwan also said it would be unreasonable to postpone SUKMA 2026 as it could increase overall costs and affect existing commitments.
“If it is postponed, organisation costs could significantly rise and pressure logistics and accommodation reservations and athlete readiness planned earlier.
“The postponement could also affect athletes’ development momentum as SUKMA is an important platform to uncover new talent (and bring them) to new heights,” he added.
Najwan said around RM15 million has been spent on SUKMA preparations over the past year and a half, while more than RM103 million has been allocated to upgrade sports infrastructure statewide including facilities managed by local authorities.
“These facilities are planned for use during SUKMA and afterwards to be used by the community and future events,” he said, adding that all states are committed to participating in SUKMA 2026.
