‘Most important is giving athletes chance to perform their best’
A BUDGET cut from RM100mil to RM50mil is not expected to affect Selangor’s running of Malaysia Games (Sukma) from Aug 15 or Para Sukma from Sept 5.
State youth, sports and entrepreneurship committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi said the cut did not involve venue upgrading.
“The budget cut involves the number of volunteers, which we have trimmed down to 5,000.
“It also involves venue rental fees, equipment costs and allowance for technical officials and volunteers,” he said.
Speaking after launching the Selangor Pickleball Development Programme or PickleSpark 2026/2027 at Pickleball Playground in Shah Alam, he said the number of technical officials for each event had been reduced but would be sufficient for the competitions.
“Although spending has been reduced, we will not cut the number of athletes.
“We want them to be able to deliver their best performance during the games.
“That is the most important aspect of Sukma,” he addded.
However, the Sukma 2026 supreme council committee has yet to decide on venues for the opening and closing ceremonies after Sepang International Circuit was nixed.
It was reported that Selangor would proceed with hosting the 22nd Sukma after receiving the consent of state ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who had earlier suggested it be postponed due to Middle East conflict-related disruptions, among others.
Following this, Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said the Games would be prudently organised with cost-saving measures.
On PickleSpark, Mohd Najwan said it was aimed at developing pickleball in a more structured, comprehensive and competitive manner.
“Pickleball is suitable for all age groups and has strong potential to promote a healthy lifestyle among the community.
“Through this programme, pickleball is expected to grow into a competitive sport that is inclusive and easily accessible to all segments of society,” he said.
PickleSpark programme director Assoc Prof Mohamad Rahizam Abd Rahim said the programme not only focused on participation but also emphasised systematic talent development to produce high quality athletes and coaches.
“The development plan will be implemented over a 12-month period, targeting 500 students aged 10 to 15, and 100 teachers.
“From this number, some will be identified and nurtured as potential pickleball athletes, while teachers will be trained to become certified coaches.”
