KUALA LUMPUR: The local sports fraternity has welcomed the government's decision to host the 2027 SEA Games.
The Youth and Sports Ministry, in a statement today, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim accepted the offer from the Southeast Asian Games Federation (SEAGF) to host the 2027 Sea Games after considering the commitment of Sarawak, Sabah, and Penang to co-host the biennial event.
Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria hailed the decision as a significant step forward for Malaysian sports.
He also added that having three states, especially Sabah and Sarawak, as co-hosts is another positive sign that the entire nation will unite for the Sea Games.
"It's great news for the Malaysian sports fraternity. The government was receptive to OCM's resolution urging the Youth and Sports Ministry to commit to hosting the 2027 Games," said Norza.
"This will spur and re-energise the National Sports Associations (NSAs) and the sports industry in the country. Our athletes will also have something to look forward to, and we can build toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics."
"This time, we will see a bigger impact with East Malaysia on board, and credit must be given to Sabah and Sarawak for becoming co-hosts. Sarawak did well in hosting the Malaysia Games (Sukma) recently, and it's a positive sign."
FAM president Datuk Hamidin Amin expressed confidence that Malaysia has ample time to prepare and host a memorable Sea Games in 2027.
"This is a good move by the government. OCM wanted to host the Sea Games as it will be beneficial for Malaysian sports. I believe hosting in three states could bring all Malaysians together," he said.
"With three years to go before the Games, I believe we have plenty of time to plan and execute a successful event."
Malaysian Weightlifting Federation (MWF) president Datuk Ayub Rahmat hopes that weightlifting will be featured in the Games in Sarawak.
"This is very much in the spirit of Asean. Malaysia has never hesitated to host the Sea Games, and this is indeed the right decision," he said.
"MWF would also like to suggest that weightlifting and other suitable sports be held in Kuching. This would allow all citizens to experience the excitement of the Games, especially after the successful organisation of Sukma in Sarawak recently."
Meanwhile, Malaysian Snooker and Billiards Federation (MSBF) president Melvin Chia emphasised the need for proper monitoring to ensure the 2027 Games will be a success for Malaysian sports.
"This is definitely good news for Malaysian sports. Multi-sport events need proper planning, and we need to ensure that the Games are fruitful for the nation," he said.
"We must be cautious about how the funds are spent for hosting the Games, and whatever is done must bring value to Malaysian sports to elevate them to the next level.
"We should not just host the Sea Games; we must ensure there is continuity for the athletes and sports afterward."