KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Sepaktakraw Association (PSM) is in the process of opening a dedicated bank account as requested by the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) to receive government funding. Its president Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan said PSM welcomes the initiative introduced by KBS, as it will help them to manage government funds better.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, opening a dedicated bank account is seen as a positive step by PSM because it allows the association to manage the funds independently. However, the association needs to ascertain the exact budget required. Previously, the funds were managed by the National Sports Council (MSN), and PSM is in full agreement with the new proposal. Mohd Sumali mentioned at a press conference after a PSM supreme committee meeting that he plans to discuss the matter at an MSN working committee meeting soon to determine the funding needed by PSM in detail.
Recently, Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh noted that several sports associations were relucta
nt to open a dedicated bank account as requested by the ministry, which is a primary condition to receive government funding. Mohd Sumali emphasized the importance of this move and expressed full support for the initiative.
In addition, Mohd Sumali announced plans for a major revamp of the national women’s squad, which will include holding tryouts to ensure that only truly qualified players represent the team at the international level. He highlighted that some players excel at the district level but miss out on representing the national team due to family commitments or difficulty obtaining leave from their employers. This issue needs to be addressed to ensure talented players can join the team.
Moreover, Mohd Sumali revealed that PSM will host the Tun Ali Cup in Melaka from December 2 to 8, with 20 teams from states and clubs participating. The prize money has also been increased, with the amount for the team event raised from RM10,000 to RM15,000, and for the doubles event from RM8,000 to RM10,000.