From Ashraf Abdullah
I assume that most Malaysians like me would be utterly disappointed if Malaysia, for the first time ever, opts not to host the SEA Games in 2027. Malaysia has never failed to host the games, since it was first held in Thailand in 1959 as the Southeast Asian Peninsular Games.
To reject it now, citing the RM700 million cost involved in organising the games, would be a national embarrassment.
This is my advice to the youth and sports minister, Hannah Yeoh: please don’t be myopic. The potential benefits of hosting the games far outweigh everything else. Cost is not the only consideration. If it were so, no nation would be willing to organise events such as this or those much bigger in scale.
The cost can be offset through sponsorships, private sector funding and partnerships with sports associations and state governments. In fact, if the minister, her Cabinet colleagues who look after the government coffers, and the officers use a little ingenuity, hosting the games could be turned into a profitable venture. I hate using this cliché, but please think outside the box.
Hosting a major sporting event like the SEA Games is a significant component of a sports minister’s key performance indicator (KPI). Securing such events would demonstrate effective leadership and achievements in promoting Malaysia as a hub for regional sports.
The SEA Games is not just a showcase of athletic prowess but a significant event for fostering regional unity, enhancing national pride, and driving socio-economic benefits. We have witnessed over and over again how millions of Malaysians rallied behind the government in a show of solidarity each time the games came to town.
Hosting a major sporting event attracts visitors from around the region, including athletes, officials, and spectators. This influx of visitors could significantly benefit local businesses, particularly in the hospitality, retail, and service sectors. Hotels, restaurants, transport services, and local attractions stand to gain from the increased footfall.
The pride and excitement generated by hosting the games can also have a positive impact on national morale, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Furthermore, the exposure and experience gained from competing in a major international event on home soil can be invaluable for Malaysian athletes. It can inspire the next generation of athletes, fostering a culture of sports and physical activity within the country.
The games will also inspire young Malaysians to engage in sports and physical activities, promoting a healthier lifestyle and fostering a sense of community. The inspiration drawn from watching national athletes compete on home soil can motivate the next generation of athletes, contributing to the development of sports in Malaysia.
Hosting the SEA Games is part and parcel of promoting and developing sports. The experience gained from competing in a major international event at home will be invaluable for Malaysian athletes. It provides them with exposure and confidence, which are crucial for their growth and success in their respective sports.
How is the minister going to meet the requirements of her KPI if she fails in her first hurdle of developing sports in Malaysia?
I have heard of former sports ministers thumping tables and engaging in heated arguments at meetings when defending their proposals to host major events in Malaysia. I do hope Yeoh will do the same. That’s her job! - FMT
Ashraf Abdullah is a former group managing editor of Media Prima TV Networks.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.
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