Most are not game playing substitute host

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians are supportive of the decision not to host the Commonwealth Games 2026 as many are concerned with the nation’s economic situation.

On The Star’s social media channels, many commenters said that hosting the Games would make managing Malaysia’s finances a more challenging affair.

ALSO READ: Malaysia: No to ‘costly’ Games

Raja Kumar praised the decision, saying that Malaysia could not afford to waste any money right now.

Another commenter, Hazique Khairi Haziquek, said it was a good decision as Malaysia needs to focus on the economy but added, “Maybe we can manage to host the Asian Games in the near future.”

Woon Chee Keong seconded the idea when he said the Asian Games is “a better choice” but stressed that “now isn’t the right time” for either as Malaysia is not in a strong financial position.

“If even Australia declines, there’s really a concern about its costs,” wrote Rainie Ng.

A commenter with the username Guna Vs made a similar point when he pointed out that if Australia refused to host the Games due to the costs involved, then it would be out of the question for Malaysia to do so.

Muhammad Shahideen said as the ringgit has yet to recover, precautionary measures should be taken before the nation goes through another loss, which in turn will affect the people.

The Youth and Sports Ministry announced yesterday that the government has decided not to accept the Commonwealth Games Federation’s offer to host the 2026 edition.

The ministry said the decision was made after taking into account all implications of Malaysia hosting the Games.

Commenter Zarah MY said the government should channel the projected expenses towards empowering local athletes instead.

She said government funds would be better used “to help develop local talent in Malaysian sports since there won’t be any expenditure on the Commonwealth Games”.

However, not everyone was in agreement with the decision.

A few users such as Abdul Rah-Shid said it was a “shocking and deeply disappointing” decision and a missed opportunity.

“This was a golden opportunity for us to showcase our country on the world stage, bring economic benefits and unite our communities through the power of sports,” he wrote.

In The Star’s poll of over 300 respondents on the issue, 75% of them agreed with the government’s move to reject the offer to host the Commonwealth Games 2026.

“Host the Asian Games when we are ready. Never hosted before,” said one respondent, alluding to how Malaysia had already hosted the Commonwealth Games in 1998.