KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysia Karate Federation (Makaf) has stressed its active pursuit of the right insurance provider, ensuring there is no delay in securing an insurance scheme for its exponents.
It was reported that the governing body had planned to introduce both medical and life insurance for its exponents last year.
Speaking to Scoop, Makaf president Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad said that the governing body would provide insurance to all its athletes, even those who do not compete for the national team.
“We have been facing some financial issues over the past few months, but we will ensure that we settle all insurance schemes for our exponents. Despite our challenges, we have always ensured that our athletes receive their allowances promptly, whether for training or competitions.
“Previously, we only provided insurance coverage for athletes during tournaments, but now, as long as they are with us, we will ensure comprehensive coverage for them. I can’t reveal the exact amount of their life insurance, but for medical insurance, we will cover approximately RM30,000 to RM40,000 for each athlete.
“We do not want to be like some national sports associations, which use and then discard their athletes after benefiting from their services. I prefer not to be a selfish president. I care about my athletes’ well-being, and I want to ensure that they receive the best.
“We are not only focusing on our professional exponents; we will also introduce insurance schemes for our backup and junior athletes because it’s important for them to have protection as well,” Azmi said when contacted.
Malaysia has been a powerhouse in karate at the SEA Games since the game was introduced in the 1987 edition in Jakarta, winning a total of 126 medals.
Apart from the SEA Games, karate has been one of the main medal prospects for Malaysia at the Asian Games.
Malaysia has won a total of 31 karate medals in the Asian Games, comprising eight golds, seven silvers, and 16 bronzes, placing the nation fourth in the all-time medal standings. – April 13, 2024