By Sofia Nasir
SHAH ALAM, June 25 — The Selangor administration is constantly collaborating with its strategic partners, including corporate entities and state government agencies, in an effort to develop high-potential sports.
State executive councillor for sports Mohd Najwan Halimi said the initiative, implemented through the State Sports Council (MSN), aims to ensure the development of the industry in Selangor remains excellent and free from financial constraints.
“We do not see this as a problem. Instead, we are working together with strategic partners, particularly private companies, and cooperating with state government agencies like local authorities.
“They are also assisting in the preparations (of the sports) and always supporting the various sports associations by acting as sponsors," he said at a press conference yesterday.
Earlier, Najwan officiated the handover ceremony of a RM200,000 contribution from Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) to the Selangor Archery Association and Selangor Rugby Union in preparation for the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak next month.
The event at MBI headquarters here was also attended by group chief executive officer Saipolyazan M. Yusop and Selangor MSN executive director Mohamad Nizam Marjugi.
According to Najwan, the sports development in Selangor requires a funding of approximately RM20 million a year to ensure the advancement of high-potential sports like hockey, rugby, archery and shooting.
“The state government allocated RM8 million a year for this purpose, which is relatively low. However, it’s not an issue as we are still collaborating with our strategic partners.”
On preparations for Sukma, Najwan expressed hope that the state contingent would be able to replicate their 2016 performance when they emerged as overall champions at the games that were also hosted in Sarawak.
However, he acknowledged the challenges this year, including the hosting of some of the events in rural locations.
“This year’s Sukma will be held in nine districts, including Miri, Bintulu, Mukah, Betong, Sibu, Kuching and Lundu. They are all located so far from each other.
“In fact, some of the venues involve remote areas. It is challenging and we won’t take it lightly. We will coordinate and assign officers in each district,” he said.
The 21st Sukma in the Land of the Hornbills is scheduled to be held from August 17 to 24, featuring 37 sports events.
