Kuala lumpur: The government will continue to prioritize the welfare of athletes to ensure the country is able to achieve more success at the international level, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He highlighted that sports are not merely recreational activities but play a crucial role in the MADANI Government framework for elevating the dignity of the people and the nation, as well as for building a more inclusive society that transcends race and background.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stressed the importance of focusing on athletes' welfare as the primary factor in achieving success in sports. He also emphasized the need for providing better and more comfortable training facilities. He made these remarks while speaking at the 2025 National Sports Awards at the National Sports Council (MSN). The event was also attended by Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Mordi Bimol, and MSN director-general Jefri Ngadirin.
Anwar, who serves as both Prime Minister and Finance Minister, acknowledged the current economic challenges but assured that various sports events and programs would continue, utilizing cost-saving measures. He guaranteed that sports activities would not be affected and that athletes' welfare would remain a top priority.
He expressed appreciation to the Youth and Sports Ministry, MSN, and sports associations for organizing programs modestly and with prudent spending despite financial constraints. Anwar assured Taufiq and the Cabinet that sports activities and athletes' welfare would be fully safeguarded.
The Prime Minister also shared insights into Malaysia's economic performance, noting better-than-expected growth last year and in the first quarter of this year despite global economic uncertainties, including rising world oil prices. He attributed this commendable trajectory to continuous efforts by all parties to ensure stability and sustainable growth.
Anwar explained that economic forecasts are usually conservative, sometimes differing from actual performance. He noted that both sports and economic growth in Malaysia have achieved better-than-expected results, showcasing the country's resilience and potential.
He concluded by acknowledging the impact of rising global oil prices on the current economic situation, urging continued hard work and focus on achieving better performance, similar to the achievements observed in sports.