KUALA LUMPUR: The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM), which is also the Commonwealth Games Association (CGA) of Malaysia, respects the government decision to turn down the Commonwealth Games Federation's (CGF) offer to host the 2026 Games.
OCM president Tan Sri Dr Mohamad Norza Zakaria in a statement said it expressed its highest gratitude to the government of Malaysia, especially the Youth and Sports Ministry, for its willingness to consider the offer made by the CGF.
"After taking into consideration all aspects, including the financial implications, we understand the government's decision in putting the needs of the people first," he said.
Earlier this month, Norza said the £100 million (RM602 million) in assistance from the CGF to host the Games, in place of the original host, Victoria, Australia, was a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" and that Malaysia already had experience in hosting Sukom '98.
The offer, which came after Victoria pulled out abruptly last year, received mixed reactions from stakeholders, with some saying the risks outweigh the benefits, especially the financial burden and insufficient time to prepare the sports venues and implement programmes.