PETALING JAYA: The national weightlifting squad’s outstanding performance at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games last month has earned the sport a major boost, with the Youth and Sports Ministry agreeing to channel an additional RM1 million towards their development.
Minister Dr Mohd Taufiq Johari said the additional support was approved following discussions with the Malaysian Weightlifting Federation (MWF) and the National Sports Council (NSC) on strengthening the sport’s development, particularly at the grassroots level.
The weightlifting squad brought home five golds, one silver and one bronze from Glasgow, making them Malaysia’s biggest medal contributors at the Games.
Malaysia finished the Games with an overall haul of eight golds, three silvers and five bronzes.
On top of the additional RM1 million allocation, the ministry have also agreed to upgrade facilities at the Rompin weightlifting training centre, with plans to develop it into the Sports Centre of Excellence.
"We have also agreed to appoint a full-time coach to be stationed in Rompin, who will focus on the development of female athletes," said Taufiq.
The quota for weightlifters under the NSC development programme will also be increased after the ongoing Malaysia Games (Sukma), with priority given to athletes who show strong potential and meet the selection criteria.
"The achievements in Glasgow have proven that weightlifting has tremendous potential to continue growing and achieving success.
"These forms of assistance and improvements are not only a recognition of the team’s achievements but also a long-term investment in building a stronger weightlifting ecosystem in the country," said Taufiq.
