KUALA LUMPUR, July 27 — The Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) has allocated RM9.3 million this year through the National Sports Council (MSN) for the national track cycling development programme to ensure Malaysia remains competitive on the international stage.
Its deputy minister Mordi Bimol said the allocation forms part of a long-term strategy comprising the Podium Programme, the Backup Athlete Programme, and the Olympic Development Programme, in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF).
The allocation covers athlete and coach management, training centre operations, competition and training exposure, sports medicine and sports science services, as well as capacity-building programmes.
"Assistance is also provided to the MNCF, including allowances for sports executive officers, office administrative support, and grants to organise championships," he said during Question Time in the Dewan Negara today.
Mordi was responding to Senator Mohd Hasbie Muda's query on KBS' long-term plan to ensure the continued success of national track cycling following technical director John Beasley's intention to step down.
He added that Beasley has agreed to assist in drafting a 10-year National Cycling Development Plan, which will serve as the sport's long-term strategic roadmap.
"The plan is currently in the preliminary discussion stage between the National Sports Council and the MNCF.
"He will also recommend the appointment of a high-performance coach to strengthen the capabilities and competency of local coaches," Mordi said.
KBS, through MSN, has also allocated RM3 million to organise 11 rounds of the Junior Cycling Malaysia Championship this year as part of its talent development efforts. Four rounds have been held so far, involving 820 young cyclists.
To strengthen local coaching expertise and reduce reliance on foreign coaches, he said that KBS is expanding certification and continuous training programmes through the National Sports Institute, including the National Coaching Certification Scheme, the National Sport Coaching Dialogue, and the NextGen Coach programme.
Cycling has been designated a High-Performance Core Sport for the 2025-2028 period, with a comprehensive athlete development pathway from the grassroots to the elite level.
Currently, the programme involves 386 athletes, 32 coaches, and 30 training centres nationwide, with the national team scheduled to compete in 21 domestic and international championships this year under the Podium and Backup programmes.
