KUALA LUMPUR: The RM230mil allocation for sports development in Budget 2025 will ensure the continuation of existing programmes, enabling Malaysia’s athletes to better compete globally.
Youth and Sports deputy minister Adam Adli Abd Halim stated that the increased funding from RM224mil this year to RM230mil in 2025 will allow the ministry to plan its initiatives and spending more effectively next year.
"We are grateful that there is no decrease in sports development funding.
"This provides us the opportunity to assess other potential programmes," he said on Saturday (Oct 19) during an event celebrating the national men’s cerebral palsy football squad for their gold medal win at the Asean Para Games in Cambodia last year.
Adam Adli mentioned that a presentation will soon be held by the ministry to detail the allocation specifics.
In his budget speech, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also announced RM15mil for the Harimau Malaya Under-13 and Under-18 teams.
Additionally, RM20mil has been allocated for the development of esports in the country.
Adam urged private sectors and non-governmental organisations to support sports development programmes.
"Sports programmes are expensive, and support from various parties is crucial for their success," he added.
Adam Adli also welcomed financial incentives announced for people with disabilities (PwD), such as tax exemptions for their family members.
Under Budget 2025, PwD are entitled to a tax exemption of up to RM7,000, while their spouses are exempt up to RM6,000.
