KUALA LUMPUR — Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has responded to Sabah’s decision to review its commitment to co-host the 2027 SEA Games, urging patience as the state reconsiders the proposal.
In response to recent developments, Hannah assured that the review will not disrupt preparations for the event, highlighting the strong commitments already secured from Sarawak and Penang.
“Give Sabah time to reconsider this internally,” Hannah told Scoop.
“From our side, it will not affect our preparation for the 2027 SEA Games as we have a firm commitment from Sarawak and Penang and together with the Federal Government, we will make it a success.”
Her comments come in the wake of Sabah Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Ellron Angin’s announcement that the state government will review the proposal to co-host the event.
This follows conflicting statements from Sabah’s Finance Minister, Masidi Manjun, who asserted that Sabah had not agreed to the arrangement, contrary to the federal youth and sports ministry’s (KBS) recent announcement.
In an official statement, Ellron clarified that the review decision was made unanimously by the Sabah Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
The state government intends to hold further discussions with KBS to gain a clearer understanding of the joint hosting details.
“Regarding the initial proposal for Sabah to be one of the co-hosts for the 2027 SEA Games, it still requires Cabinet approval. Yesterday, we agreed that Sabah will review and reconsider the proposal,” Ellron said.
“The Sabah youth and sports ministry will meet with Minister Hannah Yeoh to discuss and clarify this matter in detail.”
Hannah’s assurance that preparations for the SEA Games will proceed smoothly despite Sabah’s review reflects the ongoing commitment of the federal government, Sarawak, and Penang to ensuring the success of the event.
The total cost of hosting is estimated at RM700 million, with Sarawak expected to cover over RM300 million, Sabah RM100 million, and Penang RM15 million.
The outcome of Sabah’s review and discussions with the federal government will be presented for further consideration by the Sabah Cabinet. — September 5, 2024