Kuala lumpur: Setting a gold medal target as a key performance indicator (KPI) aims to push athletes to raise their level and achieve better results. Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari stated that this initiative is part of efforts to help Malaysia secure its first Olympic gold medal. The target was established following discussions with the National Sports Council (NSC) and input from national athletes.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the NSC director-general Jefri Ngadirin mentioned that the KPI provides athletes and teams with a clear target, especially with Malaysia set to host the SEA Games next year. Dr. Mohammed Taufiq expressed hope that the gold medal target would not dampen athletes' spirits but rather serve as a fresh catalyst for them to progress and remain resilient in pursuit of gold.

Dr. Mohammed Taufiq shared these insights with reporters after attending the 2026 National Youth League (LRK) ceremony at the Mokhtar Dahari National Football Academy. He emphasized that while the ministry values all medals won by national athletes, the pursuit of gold remains the main target to elevate Malaysia's sporting achievements.

Additionally, he highlighted that the government has allocated RM18 million this year for the National Football Development Programme (NFDP). This funding covers technical costs, sports science, coaching, clubs, athletes, and league operations. The Youth and Sports Minister stressed the importance of grassroots development in producing quality players, particularly through the LRK, which runs from June to November and aims to discover 60 young national talents.

The 2026 LRK marks the inaugural edition of the competition, featuring three age categories: Under-12 and Under-15, each with 12 teams, and Under-16 with 10 teams.