KUALA LUMPUR: Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has questioned why nine national sports associations (NSAs) have yet to open dedicated bank accounts to receive government funding, despite repeated requests.
The National Sports Council (NSC) had instructed 19 NSAs to set up these accounts for special grants and audit purposes as part of a new funding approach.
Yeoh explained that this move is intended to make it easier for the government to channel funds and ensure they are used transparently to benefit athletes.
"If an NSA doesn't open an account, we won't be able to send funds to them. I want to make it clear — this isn't us refusing to support them," said Yeoh after officiating the Inter-Club Taekwondo Championships at Stadium Titiwangsa today.
"We're still waiting on nine out of the 19 NSAs to open their accounts, and honestly, I don't understand what's causing the delay."
Yeoh said NSAs have a responsibility to support national athletes, and setting up these accounts is a straightforward step aimed at quicker financial support.
Previously, NSAs had to use their own funds first and then seek reimbursement from the NSC, which often caused delays.
According to Yeoh, this new approach will speed up access to funds.
"This process will allow NSAs to receive funds faster. I've often heard complaints about slow reimbursements, and we're trying to fix that," she explained.
Yeoh reaffirmed her ministry's commitment to transparency and accountability, stressing that NSAs need to follow these new procedures to receive the support intended for athletes.