MASOC vows prudent spending of RM240mil for 2027 Games

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia SEA Games Organising Committee (MASOC) has pledged to spend the RM240 million allocated for next year's SEA Games and Asean Para Games prudently, with preparations guided by careful planning and responsible use of public funds.

MASOC 2027 secretariat chief executive officer Datuk Abdul Rashid Yaakub said the allocation was based on projected expenditure for preparations submitted to the Finance Ministry.

He thanked the government for considering the requirements put forward by the organising committee, saying the funding provided confidence to continue preparations in a more organised and focused manner.

The allocation was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the 2027 Budget to support preparations for the 34th SEA Games and 14th Asean Para Games.

Abdul Rashid said hosting the two events was not about winning medals or providing competition venues, but also demonstrating Malaysia's ability to manage international sporting events professionally, efficiently and effectively.

"We want these Games to leave a proud legacy, not only through athletes' achievements but also in the quality of organisation, spectator experience, inclusivity for para athletes and the positive impact on national sports development," he said.

He said the government's commitment had also boosted morale across the national sports ecosystem, including athletes, coaches, sports associations, organising personnel and volunteers, as they prepared to contribute to the success of the Games.

Abdul Rashid added that the Prime Minister's emphasis on national unity through sports was in line with the official theme, "Raikan Perpaduan", which aims to bring Malaysians together through sportsmanship, togetherness and national pride.

He said MASOC 2027 was committed to ensuring every aspect of preparations was carried out responsibly, with the aim of providing the best possible experience for athletes, officials, supporters and the public.

The SEA Games is scheduled to take place from Sept 18-29, 2027, in Kuala Lumpur, Sarawak, Johor and Penang, while the Asean Para Games will be held in Kuala Lumpur from Oct 17-23.