SHAH ALAM, May 15 — The nearly 50 per cent reduction from the original RM100 million budget for the Malaysian Games (SUKMA) 2026 in Selangor won’t affect athlete development, and instead focus on lowering expenses for logistics and allowances.
State executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi said the budget cut of about RM50 million has slashed equipment rental, the venue for the opening ceremony, allowances for technical officers and volunteers, and accommodation and food.
“Previously, we allocated a large number of volunteers, but we have now lowered it to 5,000. Technical officers from the (Selangor) State Sports Council and the (SUKMA) secretariat have also been (lowered in number) by involving management personnel from other states.
“So far, cost-cutting measures do not involve SUKMA infrastructure as those fall under development projects. These upgrading works are not just for SUKMA, but meant for long-term use.
“For example, the refurbishment of the aquatic centre. It was already time for an upgrade, and it just so happens that we are hosting SUKMA. After this, it can serve as a sports centre for the public and a training venue,” he said after launching the Selangor Pickleball Sports Development Programme (Picklespark) here today.
On April 20, Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj suggested postponing SUKMA 2026 until the West Asia crisis subsides and the Shah Alam Sports Complex (KSSA) is complete.
On April 26, the Youth and Sports Ministry announced that Sultan Sharafuddin had consented for SUKMA 2026 to go on as planned, albeit in a prudent and cost-effective manner, after an April 23 briefing from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Meanwhile, Najwan said venues for SUKMA events will be decided soon after discussions with the organising committee.
“I need to get feedback from the agencies and departments involved because we are operating with a limited budget. What matters most is we organise all events as best as possible, not (just) the opening ceremony,” he said.
He added that around 900 athletes will represent Selangor in 36 sports and 469 medal events at this edition of SUKMA.
“We have 1,200 athletes, but the number will be shortlisted to 900. The reduction in funding will not disrupt athlete development,” Najwan said.
The 22nd SUKMA will be held from August 15 to 24, while Para SUKMA will be held from September 5 to 14.
