KUALA LUMPUR: Para long jumper Latif Romly and track cyclist Azizulhasni Awang were among the big winners as the government paid out RM4.26 million to national athletes and coaches for their outstanding performances at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games and the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games this year.
The incentives were paid out under the National Sports Incentive Scheme (Shakam) and National Coaches Incentive Scheme (SGAR), during a presentation ceremony here last night.
Under Shakam, athletes who win an individual medal at any of the three games take home RM80,000 for gold, RM40,000 for silver and RM20,000 for bronze.
Pairs split the incentive while the incentive for teams is based on the number of each athlete in the team.
Coaches receive incentives amounting to 20 per cent of what their athletes receive. For example, an athlete who wins gold will receive RM80,000 while their coach will pocket RM16,000.
Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Taufiq Johari, who officiated the event, said the incentives are to acknowledge and appreciate the achievements and sacrifices of both athletes and coaches.
“It is not just about the money, it is a symbol of appreciation. When Negaraku is played and the Jalur Gemilang is raised, the whole country shares the same pride,” said Dr. Taufiq.
Latif, who won gold in the men’s T20 long jump at both the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Para Games, received RM160,000.
Azizulhasni, who won keirin gold at the Commonwealth Games as well as keirin gold and individual sprint bronze at the Asian Games, pocketed a cool RM180,000.
Malaysia won eight gold, three silver and five bronze at the Commonwealth Games, which amounted to RM1.092 million in incentives paid out.
At the Asian Games, the national contingent won 9-7-6 (RM1.872 million) and 6-8-13 (RM1.296 million) at the Asian Para Games.