Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Paralympic Council (MPM) has requested an allocation of RM20 million from the Ministry of Youth and Sports for 2026 to bolster the country's para sports development programme. Its president, Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharudin, emphasized the necessity of the funds in light of the commendable performance by para athletes throughout the year, including at the recent 2025 Asian Youth Para Games (AYPG) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharudin stated, "For development, we need at least RM20 million. These para athletes have proven their capabilities in terms of performance and merit, so an appropriate allocation is very appropriate." He stressed that the momentum and development of the athletes should not stagnate, highlighting the need for funding based on merit and achievements.
Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman made these remarks to reporters following the ceremony where automotive company Chery handed over winning incentives to AYPG athletes at the National Sports Council (MSN). Chery awarded incentives totaling RM208,000 to the medal-winning athletes. The Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari, presented the incentives.
At the AYPG 2025, the national contingent achieved a remarkable performance, securing 14 gold medals, 13 silver, and 13 bronze medals, making a total of 39 medals. Teenage para swimmer, Elysha Cheong Hui Yin, received the highest incentive of RM32,000 after winning four gold medals in the S10 (physical disability) freestyle events, 100 and 400 metres, 100m breaststroke and butterfly, and a bronze in the 200m individual medley.
Elysha expressed her satisfaction with her achievements, stating that she managed to renew her personal records in each event she participated in. Despite feeling that there is room for improvement, she was proud of her accomplishments in her first international competition. Elysha has set her sights on becoming an elite para swimmer before the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games to qualify for the prestigious event.