Malaysia’s SEA Games preparations have hit an unexpected financial hurdle after a sudden venue change in Thailand forced nine sports originally planned for Songkhla to be relocated to Bangkok — triggering a significant spike in operational costs.
Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) Secretary-General Datuk Nasir Ali confirmed that the cost surge happened “drastically” and has affected travel, logistics, and accommodation planning with the Games set to begin next week.
Speaking to Astro Arena’s Fina Nasrom, Nasir admitted the late change of venue has burdened several national sports associations.
He highlighted that rising expenses are unavoidable:
“The movement of venues from Songkhla to Bangkok definitely increases costs — especially flights, transportation, and possibly hotels.”
He added that the National Sports Council (MSN) and Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) are already reviewing what support can be provided.
Despite the sudden hike in expenses, Nasir clarified that no changes have been made to the current athlete allocation system.
Category A athletes — those expected to deliver medals — remain the top priority, while Category B participation continues to be evaluated using the existing cost-sharing formula.
“From a cost standpoint, we are still following the Category A and B formula,” he said.
“MOM is an NGO, so we do not have a large pool of funds. However, we will continue discussions with MSN to see where assistance can be provided.”
Nasir issued a clear call to any association struggling financially:
“Any association facing serious financial issues should contact MSN or their own management as soon as possible for advice and support.”
With the SEA Games kicking off imminently, the late logistical overhaul has become a major challenge — but MOM remains hopeful that coordination with MSN will minimise the burden on athletes and teams.
Credit Photo : OCM
