Malaysia targets overall title at SEA Games 2027

By VNA January 20, 2026 | 03:40 pm PT

Fireworks display at the closing ceremony of the 33rd SEA Games at Rajamangala Stadium, Bangkok, Thailand, on Dec. 20, 2025. Photo by VnExpress/Bui Luong

Malaysia's Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) has set the goal of the country being overall champions at the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in 2027, which will be hosted by Malaysia.

Newly appointed Youth and Sports Minister Mohd Taufiq Johari said after taking office on Jan. 16 that the ministry, together with the National Sports Council (NSC), will strengthen cooperation with national sports associations and others to work towards that goal.

He expressed confidence that Malaysia could emerge as the strongest team at the SEA Games 2027, and voiced optimism about repeating the overall championship the country secured when it last hosted the event in 2017.

Taufiq praised the dedication and fighting spirit displayed by Malaysian athletes at the SEA Games 2025 in Thailand, saying he hoped they will maintain the same qualities when Malaysia hosts the Games in 2027.

He added that the KBS, together with the NSC and relevant agencies, have already drawn up detailed plans and a clear timeline, including the organization of workshops, to ensure medal targets can be achieved.

The minister also announced additional incentives under the national sports incentive scheme. Accordingly, athletes winning bronze medals at the SEA Games, whether in individual or team events, will receive MYR1,000 (US$244), while incentives for gold and silver medalists will remain unchanged at MYR20,000 and MYR3,000, respectively.