Yakeb utilises over 78% of 2024 allocation, supporting over 1,500 former athletes

National Athletes Welfare Foundation has spent RM 781,087.86 by September to provide medical, financial, and career support

In August last year, Selangor Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneurship exco Mohd Najwan Halimi (left) and Yakeb president Datuk Noorul Ariffin Abdul Majeed (centre) visited national sepak takraw legend Suhaimi Yusof to offer medical support for his stroke and brain haemorrhage treatment. — Scoop file pic, October 16, 2024

KUALA LUMPUR —The National Athletes Welfare Foundation (Yakeb) has utilised 78.11% of its RM1 million allocation from the government as of September, according to the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS).

Yakeb has spent RM 781,087.86 in providing assistance to 1,514 former athletes covering medical support, death benefits, natural disaster relief, financial aid, education, career continuity as well as skills and coaching training.

The allocation and expenditure were revealed following a question raised by Tuan Zakri Hassan (PN-Kangar) during a Dewan Rakyat session. 

Zakri sought clarification on the funds provided to Yakeb, highlighting the increasing number of athletes under Yakeb’s care and the need to ensure their welfare is adequately maintained.

In its written response, KBS confirmed that the RM1 million allocation had been designated for Yakeb’s operations in 2024. 

“Beyond government funding, Yakeb has received additional financial support from corporate bodies and other agencies, contributing RM80,823.15 to its operational costs,” the ministry stated. — October 16, 2024