[UPDATED] Malaysia targets 40 gold medals in Cambodia SEA Games

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian contingent is aiming for 40 gold, 37 silver, and 64 bronze medals at the SEA Games in Cambodia, which officially begins on May 5.

Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said the contingent will comprise 676 athletes and 251 officers.

Of that total, 401 individuals are male athletes while 275 are female athletes.

440 athletes, which is 65% of the total number, will make their first appearance at the 32nd edition event.

“We have had three sessions before making this announcement. Most importantly, we wished to give our young athletes the exposure.

“That is why 65% of the total athletes are SEA Games debutants.

“During my town hall session with the athletes in December, many voiced out they have been practicing but could not get the chance to compete as we kept sending elite athletes.

“Hence, it is important now to give them the opportunity to shine,” she said.

Yeoh was met at the Jalur Gemilang handover ceremony for the Malaysian contingent to the 32nd SEA Games.

Also present were her deputy Adam Adli Abdul Halim, Olympic Council of Malaysia president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria, National Sports Council director-general Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail, National Sports Institute chief executive officer Ahmad Faedzal Md Ramli, and 2023 SEA Games chef-de-mission Datuk Mohd Nasir Ali.

The Malaysian contingent of athletes will take part in 34 of the 36 types of sports being contested in Cambodia.

They will also be participating in 340 events, or 58.42%, of the overall 582 events contested. – The Vibes, April 30, 2023