THE BA of Malaysia (BAM) may have to fork out more than RM4 million to host the Malaysia Open at Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil on Nov 24-29.
And this has prompted the national body to seek financial assistance from the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to organise the annual event.
In the era of the Covid-19 pandemic, tournament organisers will have to spend on additional manpower and for other necessities to adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs).
The Malaysia Open offers a total prize purse of US$750,000 (RM3.2 million).
BAM secretary-general Datuk Kenny Goh confirmed that he has written to BWF on this matter.
"Our expenses will shoot up due to the pandemic. I have written to BWF secretary-general Thomas Lund about it.
"The BWF do not offer funds to tournament organisers.
"However, the world body should now consider offering help to member nations.
"This is because organisers have to implement safety measures at all levels due to Covid-19, and this will increase expenses.
"We will have to hire more people and also spend on disinfecting and sanitising the venue and equipment daily.
"We are also not sure on whether we will have to limit ticket sales to adhere to the SOP.
"We have yet to receive feedback from BWF. I hope our appeal will be given due consideration."
The issue of providing financial assistance to tournament organisers will likely be discussed during BWF's annual general meeting (AGM) via online on July 18.