KUALA LUMPUR: The Sea Games Federation (SEAGF) have confirmed a total of 56 sports for next year’s biennial Games in the Philippines.
This was confirmed by Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president Datuk Seri Norza Zakaria who attended the SEAGF council meeting in Manila on Saturday.
When contacted, Norza said: "The council have endorsed 56 sports. However, five sports — kurash, eSports, surfing, skateboarding and ju-jitsu — will need to confirm their participation with the SEAGF office by Dec 15 through formal application by either the International or Asian Federations."
Following OCM's executive board meeting two weeks ago, the Malaysian contingent are expected to compete in 41 sports.
However, Norza disclosed that waterski and cricket both did not make the cut, and will only confirm the final number of sports next year.
On whether there was still room for appeal, Norza added: "There is still hope for waterski as it is under the same category as wake boarding but it looks very slim for cricket.
"The Malaysian contingent's participation will be based on our selection process.
"Events will be finalised by the Philippines Olympic Committee (POC) in January, only after that will we plan our selection.
"Medal target will also be set after that as there are many sports. We will have our category A and B selection."
A total of 404 events from 38 sports were competed at last year’s edition in KL.
Malaysia were crowned overall champions witha haul of 145 gold, 92 silver and 86 bronze.
The Games next year will take place in three major cities — Manila, Subic and Clark (main sports hub) — on Nov 30-Dec 10.