Sportcheck: Bigger budget for major championships

THE Sports Ministry will propose a bigger budget for next year with equal emphasis on sports and youth. Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the proposed budget increase for sports is to prepare athletes for major championships.

Among the major events next year are the New Delhi Commonwealth Games and Guangzhou Asian Games.

"We are in the midst of completing the proposal which will be submitted to the government for consideration," said Ahmad Shabery after launching the 7th Asian Netball Championships at the Sports Ministry in Putrajaya yesterday.

"Currently, our coffers are sufficient to run sports activities in the country.
"We are not facing budget problems."

He also confirmed that his ministry will disburse RM5.5 million owing to several national sports associations for last year's expenses.

"It will be paid through the National Sports Council (NSC).

"It's a small amount and we should be able to settle all dues by year end," he said.

NST

Sports Ministry in the NEWS