SEREMBAN: The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), through the National Sports Council (MSN), has allocated RM492,460 for the development of wushu this year, said its minister, Hannah Yeoh. She stated that the allocation was implemented through the Talent and Development Programme, which includes grants to 14 state sports councils, coaches’ allowances, and support for competitions and event management at the state level.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hannah Yeoh mentioned that this funding is a recognition for the sport, highlighting wushu’s active association in talent scouting. She expressed hope that the talent programmes and camps held this year would continue into the next year. Her remarks came during the State Wushu Team Achievement Certificate Presentation ceremony in Negeri Sembilan, where the President of the Wushu Federation of Malaysia, Chong Kim Fatt, and the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, were also present.

Hannah further detailed that national wushu
championships have received support from KBS through the sports matching grant, with RM300,000 allocated for 2023, RM59,000 from the community sports fund, and RM214,000 this year for five championships, in addition to RM180,000 for a wushu talent search programme. She noted that these allocations have resulted in the nation’s athletes winning medals in events such as the 2023 Cambodia SEA Games and the 16th World Wushu Championships 2023.

She also observed that wushu is increasingly participated in by Malay exponents, illustrating the sport as a medium for unity and understanding among Malaysians. Hannah stressed the importance of athletes being part of an association to ensure continuous development of their talent, training, and skills, which also aids younger athletes.

Furthermore, Hannah encouraged athletes to engage in sports administration, including organising more courses related to sports and management, considering their understanding of athletes’ needs. She remarked that the day’s ceremony aimed
to recognise the commitment and dedication of athletes and serve as inspiration for emerging talents interested in wushu.

She concluded by stating that the ceremony was an essential platform to introduce wushu to the public and acknowledge the efforts and support from various stakeholders, including the state government, ministries, departments, and sports associations.