KUALA LUMPUR: Sports analyst Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli has called for a fair allocation of annual funding to para-sports associations to support grassroots talent development.
Pekan said grassroots development in para-sports requires substantial funding, as it presents more challenges than able-bodied sports.
"Funding for grassroots programmes is crucial if we are to develop a new talent pool to represent the nation. Without it, we will keep relying on the same faces for too long," said Pekan.
"Associations need proper funding to run these programmes and identify athletes to nurture. It certainly costs money, not only because of the need for specialised equipment but also due to the necessity for trained personnel."
Pekan pointed out that coaches in para-sports must possess the skills to handle both the physical and emotional needs of the athletes.
"The athlete-to-coach ratio must be kept low because para-athletes need more individual attention," he explained.
Pekan also stressed the importance of a solid framework to identify promising athletes from grassroots programmes, moving them into the national backup or elite squads.
"Not all athletes can make it to the top. Some may reach the Paralympics, while others might only compete in smaller tournaments. We can't invest equally in all of them once they progress to higher levels."
This year, the government allocated RM12 million to para-sports, the same as in 2023.
However, it remains unclear how much of this is being channelled into grassroots initiatives.
Nearly 30 associations, including states, are affiliated with the Malaysia Paralympic Council, while the national backup and elite programmes fall under the National Sports Council.