Penang:The Penang state government has allocated RM15 million to support the hosting of the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, with the state set to be one of the four clusters for the sporting event in September next year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated that the allocation would be distributed in stages to the Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) this year and in 2027 to ensure preparations and the smooth organisation of sporting events in the state.

Penang is scheduled to host six sports sepak takraw, snooker and billiards, judo, boxing, table tennis, and floorball. Chow noted that preparations for the Penang Cluster are 90 percent complete, including competition facilities and venues such as the SPICE Arena and the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC).

The 2027 SEA Games are set to occur from September 18 to 29. Besides Penang, Sarawak and Kuala Lumpur will each host 18 sports, while Johor will host football.

Additionally, Chow mentioned that the state government has allocated RM7.15 million to MSNPP to bolster sports development and excellence in the state, with a focus on athlete development. RM5 million has been allocated to the Penang Stadium and Open Spaces Corporation (PSDKLPP) for upgrading and improving sports facilities and infrastructure.

Furthermore, RM2.8 million has been designated for 2027 to enhance the role of youth agencies and organisations as strategic partners of the state government in promoting youth development and empowerment. This includes RM1.5 million for the Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC) and RM1.3 million for the Penang Youth Council (JBPP). Chow highlighted that JBPP currently has 384 members across all state constituencies, supported by 10,976 youth volunteers contributing to the state's youth development agenda.

The State Legislative Assembly sitting is scheduled to resume on Monday.