PUTRAJAYA – Malaysian athletes will enjoy increased incentives, which are expected to boost their performance at the Asean University Games in Surabaya, Indonesia, kicking off on June 25.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir announced the new incentives during Malaysia’s contingent’s flag-handling ceremony in Putrajaya today.
The increased incentives for Malaysian athletes apply not only to gold medal winners but also to silver and bronze medallists.
Gold medal winners will now receive RM3,000, up from RM2,000 previously, while silver medal winners will receive RM2,000, an increase of RM500 over the original RM1,500 reward.
Bronze medalists will also receive an increased incentive of RM1,500, up from the previous RM1,000.
“I hope that these incentives will provide an extra boost to every athlete, though not solely for the sake of incentives alone.
“These games also cultivate a sense of patriotism as they compete under our national flag.
“So, I hope that with the talent of our athletes, they will continue to make a name for themselves and bring meaningful success to the country,” said Zambry.
For this edition, the Malaysian contingent has set a target to bring home 35 gold medals, potentially placing Malaysia among the top three.
Several sports, featuring standout athletes such as the sensational runners Muhammad Azeem Fahmi and Shereen Samson Vallabuoy, as well as swimming with Khiew Hoe Yan in the line-up, are expected to be strong contenders for gold medals for the national contingent.
“Last year in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand, the national contingent collected 49 gold, 83 silver, and 52 bronze medals, finishing as the runners-up behind Thailand.
“We are aiming for 35 gold medals, but we hope to exceed that target.
“The most crucial aspect is their determination to achieve success because nothing is impossible. The driving force towards success is the fighting spirit of each athlete,” he added. – June 20, 2024