Malaysia Athletics pays RM65,000 in overdue incentives to former national sportsmen and sportswomen, recognising their historic contributions and sacrifices
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Athletics has honoured the nation’s past track and field legends by finally disbursing long-awaited incentive payments.
A total cash reward of RM65,000 was presented to the former athletes at the 2026 Malaysia Athletics Awards Night.
The recipients included iconic figures such as Tan Sri Dr M Jegathesan, Gladys Chai Ng Mei, Khoo Chong Beng, V. Subramaniam, Datuk Rabuan Pit, Datuk M. Rajamani and Datuk Zaiton Othman.
Rajamani expressed gratitude for finally receiving the incentive after a wait spanning six decades.
“The wait has been very long and the value of the money has also depreciated. Nevertheless, I thank MA for still appreciating our contributions,” she said.
Olympic Council of Malaysia president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria presented the incentives and praised the athletes’ legacy.
“They may have been lacking in terms of preparation and incentives, but they were rich in sacrifice, struggle and the spirit of patriotism,” he said.
He added that these athletes proved the impossible could be achieved through strength of character and motivation.
At the same ceremony, MA also presented incentives totalling RM32,500 to current national athletes.
These rewards were for athletes who broke national records between 2022 and 2025.
