KUALA LUMPUR: The National Sports Associations (NSAs) are optimistic that the over RM230 million allocation from the government under the 2025 Budget will elevate their respective sports to new heights.
Harimau Malaya are set to regain their bite thanks to the government's RM15 million allocation to strengthen the national team and boost grassroots football development.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, during the presentation of the 2025 Budget at the Dewan Rakyat today, announced that the funds will support the national senior, Under-18, and Under-13 teams.
The allocation will also be used to secure top coaches, provide high-quality training sessions and offer appropriate rewards to players.
Harimau Malaya, ranked No. 132 in the world, will face the crucial 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers in March next year.
"We appreciate it, and the FA of Malaysia (FAM) will make the best use of this support for the benefit of our national teams," said FAM secretary-general Datuk Noor Azman Rahman.
The Malaysian Cricket Association (MCA) expressed surprise and gratitude for the RM1 million allocated to develop the sport, following Anwar's recent visits to cricket-mad nations like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
It marks the first time MCA has received a direct windfall from the government.
MCA president Mohammed Iqbal Ali Kassim Ali welcomed the news, though he awaits confirmation from the Youth and Sports Ministry.
"As much as I welcome this great news, I am equally anxious to hear it officially from the Youth and Sports Ministry. Regardless, I am thankful to the ministry and the media for their continuous support of cricket in Malaysia," said Iqbal.
Malaysia eSports Federation (MESF) deputy president Afiq Fadhli Narawi said the RM20 million allocation to eSports is a recognition of the sport's growing significance.
He added that Selangor Red Giants' Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) victory at the Mid-Season Cup has elevated the status of eSports in the country.
"I would like to congratulate the Selangor Red Giants on this remarkable achievement. Their victory in Riyadh is a major accomplishment for the nation and shows that our local eSports talents can compete globally."
"With the government's allocation of RM20 million, this is the right step towards strengthening the country's eSports ecosystem.
"It will create greater opportunities for grassroots talent development, provide better infrastructure and enhance the competitiveness of local teams on the international stage."
Meanwhile, Malaysian Paralympic Council (MPC) president Datuk Seri Megat Shahriman Zaharudin hopes that RM15 million from the budget will be channelled to para-sports development.
"We hope part of the government's allocation will continue to flow to the MPC to ensure the successful implementation of our development programmes," said Shahriman.
"MPC is seeking RM15 million for talent development programmes, which will help us produce top athletes in preparation for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles and other upcoming championships."