KUALA LUMPUR – National athletes have welcomed the government’s Budget 2024 announcement, which includes significant funding for the ongoing Road to Gold (RTG) initiative.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, when tabling the 2024 supply bill in the Dewan Rakyat last Friday, revealed that RM72 million is earmarked to fortify the existing ecosystem of athletes in the Podium Programme, with an allocation of RM20 million dedicated to the RTG programme.
“We celebrate the success of our national contingent in clinching a total of 32 medals in the recently concluded Asian Games,” said Anwar, who is also finance minister.
“The government will continue to support and strengthen the Podium Programme athletes to continue our quest for winning our first gold medal ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics.”
In April, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh unveiled a roster of RTG athletes, featuring 11 badminton players and two athletes each from cycling and diving.
These 15 athletes are seen as Malaysia’s best prospects for clinching the nation’s first Olympic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games.
One of the athletes, top men’s doubles shuttler Aaron Chia, expressed his excitement over the allocation.
“This is very positive news to hear,” said the former world champion and reigning Asian Games bronze medallist with partner Soh Wooi Yik when contacted recently.
“The funding would not only benefit badminton but also provide a substantial boost to other athletes on the RTG list, contributing to the overall development of Malaysian sports.”
Also speaking to Scoop was diving sensation Datuk Pandelela Rinong Pamg, who expressed her confidence in Hannah’s ability to manage the budget responsibly, ensuring it aids athletes in achieving their best results.
“I believe the budget allocated amount should not be an issue if it is being managed responsibly.
“I trust the minister will be able to manage it wisely to help us produce results,” said the 2016 Olympics silver medallist.
Hannah recently announced that the RTG committee would convene after conducting a thorough assessment of the athletes’ performance at the Asian Games, engaging with key stakeholders, including experts from Japan’s Nippon Sports Science University.
Among the matters on the agenda will be the potential inclusion of athletes who have secured their slots for the Paris Olympics.
With the Japanese university representatives set to conduct research, Hannah added that the RTG committee will make crucial decisions in the near future. – October 16, 2023