KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Hashim Mohd Ali, the key figure in Malaysia hosting of the 1998 Commonwealth Games, is against the country stepping in as a replacement host for the 2026 edition.
Hashim, 86, was the executive chairman of Sukom Ninety Eight Berhad, which was formed to organise the 1998 Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games.
He said today it is impossible for Malaysia to prepare in just two years to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The former Armed Forces chief said it took Sukom four years to plan and deliver the KL Games, which were considered one of the most successful games.
He said those who wish to organise the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Malaysia, should not rely on the government for funding and the current economic situation is also not ideal for hosting the games.
"To run the games you need money, and the question is how big or grand it's going to be.
"We were given a RM1 million grant from the government to set up Sukom Ninety Eight Berhad, and we had four years to prepare for it. We looked for sponsorship and didn't rely on government funds.
"Mastercard gave us a US$5 million sponsorship while Malaysian Airlines sponsored air tickets to be shared by athletes and officials of the 69 Commonwealth countries. It was a big deal back then.
"I don't think the economy is good to get sponsorships like this at the moment."
Hashim said the priority of the Malaysian government is the well-being of the rakyat, and government funds are critically needed in other sectors, especially health.
The 1998 Commonwealth Games was reported to have posted a loss of RM11.6 million and its accounts are yet to be closed, just like the 2017 Kuala Lumpur Sea Games.
"The total bill for the 1998 games came to RM200 million, just imagine how much it will cost to host the games now?
"What's the priority now, the rakyat or the games?
"The games do have their benefits if run properly, but if you ask 10 people in the public, nine would say no to it.
"This is not the right time, there are much more pressing needs. If you want to host it, do it properly in four years. Hosting the 2027 Sea Games will be a better prospect, just focus on doing a good job. Form a company and run it privately," said Hashim.
On Monday, the Olympic Council of Malaysia said the Commonwealth Games Federation had asked Malaysia to be a replacement host after the Australian city of Victoria pulled out due to escalating costs.
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said the cabinet will decide soon on the offer, which includes a £100 million (RM602 million) investment from CGF.
However, hosting the games could end up being a financial disaster. Birmingham City Council, which hosted the 2022 games, reportedly went bankrupt, with costs reported to reach £778 million (RM4.67 billion).