By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Jan 20 — The state government has spent nearly RM800,000 in assisting hundreds of Selangor’s former athletes in the B40 category for more comfortable living.
State executive councillor for sports Mohd Khairuddin Othman said the efforts, via the Ceria Atlet Selangor (CAS) programme, is also a gesture of appreciation for the services of these individuals who once brought glory to the state.
He said the initiative, which was distributed in stages beginning in 2020, has benefited 200 low-income athletes to build, repair or purchase items for their homes.
“For this year, we handed over donations to 45 former athletes, some of who received land ownership and people’s house assistance,” Mohd Khairuddin said in his speech at CAS’ launching event yesterday.
The recipients are among 700 Selangor athletes registered under the National Athletes Welfare Foundation (Yakeb), with the remaining to be tracked down to determine if they require assistance or otherwise.
“We will track them down and provide assistance, should they need it, to ensure their welfare remains protected. This is also to prove to young athletes that they will not be left behind in the future, as we will try our best to help them,” he said.
Other than Yakeb, the programme was carried out in collaboration with other agencies including the Selangor National Sports Council and the Selangor Zakat Board.
