Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Basketball Association (MABA) are targeting at least one gold medal or two silvers at the 2027 SEA Games, with the team for the 3x3 event identified as the main hope. MABA president Datuk Seri Lee Tian Hock said that, as such, they will get cracking right away despite there being nearly two years to go to the 2027 edition of the biennial Games.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Seri Lee Tian Hock emphasized the importance of setting higher targets since the 2027 edition will be hosted in Malaysia. The association is eyeing either one gold or two silvers, based on their assessment of strengths and weaknesses. For the 5x5 event, the Philippines is identified as the biggest threat, making it challenging for Malaysia to dominate. However, the 3x3 event provides a promising opportunity for gold as the team is currently ranked 11th in the world and has qualified for the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
Also present at the MABA dinner were Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming, Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) vice-president Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan, who is also the Sepaktakraw Association of Malaysia (PSM) president, OCM secretary-general Datuk Mohd Nasir Ali, and the national cagers.
Malaysia's previous performance at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand saw them returning with two bronze medals in the men's and women's 3x3 events. The home team bagged the men's gold, while Indonesia triumphed in the women's category.
Tian Hock also announced that MABA had approved a RM7.3 million allocation for basketball activities this year and emphasized their commitment to being well-prepared for the 2027 Games. He mentioned that MABA now possesses stable and strong financial resources, which ensures the sustainability of their activities without relying heavily on government assistance.
He highlighted that MABA is likely one of the few financially independent sports associations in Malaysia, capable of continuing their functions and activities even without government contributions.