Sports talents in rural areas to benefit from RM30m grant
KUALA LUMPUR: It is often said that there are many undiscovered talented athletes in the kampungs, villages and rural areas.
In a recent development, the Malaysian government has allocated RM30 million in Sports Matching Grant and community sports funds to rural areas, with the aim of recognizing and nurturing undiscovered sporting talents. Youth and Sports Minister Dr Taufiq Johari emphasized that while the nation remains committed to the development of elite and podium-tier athletes, the strategic priority lies in replenishing the national talent pipeline.
Under the 2027 Budget, a total of RM460 million has been earmarked for national sports development, including the RM30 million specifically designated for the Sports Matching Grant and community sports initiatives.
Taufiq clarified that the future distribution of these grants should not be limited to urban centers, but should also extend to underserved rural communities, where untapped sporting talent may be found at a young age. He reiterated that the core focus remains on the next generation of athletes and the cultivation of talent from school level onwards.
The policy shift aims to address the existing gap between retiring national stars and emerging talent by providing institutional funding to community-level clubs and grassroots programs in areas outside the major cities.
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