Kuala lumpur: Malaysia will continue to monitor the developments of the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia ahead of the SEA Games scheduled to be held this December, said Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh. She stated that the government, through the Foreign Ministry, is closely observing the situation, but so far, there has been no change in the country’s sports contingent planning.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Yeoh expressed concern about the ongoing conflict but mentioned that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is actively engaging with both countries to negotiate a ceasefire. She emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, especially with the SEA Games set to take place in Thailand this December. Yeoh expressed hope for a swift and amicable resolution to the conflict.

During the opening of the 2025 National Combat Sports Championships at Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, Yeoh reassured that the National Sports Council (NSC) is closely following updates from the Foreign Ministry and that Malaysia’s plans remain unchanged. The Combat Sports Championships gather 2,000 athletes nationwide, competing in silat, wushu, karate-do, muay thai, and wrestling.

Yeoh highlighted the need for combat sports to receive support similar to Olympic-status sports, with the ministry committed to aiding the development of these disciplines. She also addressed the proposal by the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) to create a National Sports Trust Fund as a means to reduce reliance on government funding, viewing it as a positive initiative.

She noted that sports associations should seek their own funding sources and highlighted the involvement of the private sector, mentioning Chery Malaysia’s contribution as a sign of progress.