Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) has assured that the cost-saving measures currently being formulated will not affect the quality of preparations for national athletes ahead of the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari emphasized that while discussions on the matter are ongoing, the measures will not involve cuts to sports development programmes, athlete participation, or the quality of preparations for the national contingent.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Mohammed Taufiq elaborated that the cost-saving measures encompass various aspects, including domestic programmes, and aim to reduce certain rates and costs. The savings generated are intended to be utilized for more critical matters, without compromising the quality of athlete preparations, sports participation, or the overall quality of the sports. He conveyed these assurances to reporters after the National Youth Day (HBN) 2026 celebration, which was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Dr. Mohammed Taufiq addressed these concerns in response to queries about the government's cost-saving measures amid the global supply crisis due to the conflict in West Asia. Malaysia is set to compete in 10 events at the 23rd edition of the Commonwealth Games in Scotland beginning July 23, and in 27 events at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, in September.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mohammed Taufiq highlighted the Malaysian Youth Development Action Plan 2035, launched during HBN. The plan outlines seven main thrusts involving all ministries required to implement programmes related to KBS, including digital leadership, artificial intelligence (AI), education, and employment opportunities. This action plan serves as a guide to ensure the youth nurtured today become the future generation of the country.
On a separate note, Dr. Mohammed Taufiq stated that his ministry will leave the resolution of issues related to the citizenship status of seven heritage players entirely to the Home Ministry and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). He clarified that KBS will not interfere in association matters and will defer to the relevant authorities for decision-making. This statement follows reports of the national football supporters group Ultras Malaya calling for the revocation of citizenship for seven Harimau Malaya heritage players after a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling confirmed the falsification of eligibility documents.