Kota Kinabalu: Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said his Ministry is taking firm action to address delays and shortcomings in youth and sports infrastructure across Sabah.
He said this in his winding-up speech during the 2026 State Budget debate.
Responding to concerns raised by Kuamut Assemblyman Datuk Masiung Banah over the stalled Tongod Sports Complex, Nizam said the previous contractor was terminated on Sept 3 for failing to complete the project.
“As new Minister, I will ensure the Tongod Sports Complex is completed according to schedule,” he said, adding that his Ministry is now preparing the necessary documents to appoint a rescue contractor.
On a proposal by Balung Assemblyman Syed Ahmad Syed Abas to increase his Ministry’s allocation due to Sabah’s large youth population, Nizam said he appreciated the suggestion.
He said the Ministry would continue to improve service delivery and expressed confidence that the Finance Ministry would consider future requests for additional funding to strengthen youth development, sports and the creative economy.
Addressing concerns by Likas Assemblyman Tham Yun Fook over the poor condition of facilities at the Likas Sports Complex, Nizam said heavy public use inevitably leads to wear and tear.
“My ministry will do its utmost to repair and maintain these facilities,” he said, adding that he plans to personally visit all sports complexes throughout Sabah.
Nizam said proposals by the Tanjong Keramat (Shah Alfie Yahya) and Sungai Manila (Hazem Mubarak Musa) assemblymen for a youth centre, a mini stadium and community fields would be considered.
He said feasibility studies would be carried out for possible inclusion in future development projects.
Responding to a question from Api-Api Assemblyman Loi Kok Liang on athlete welfare, Nizam said the 2026 Budget safeguards the future of state athletes, including those from Sukma, Para Sukma, Sopma and the Malaysia Deaf Sports Games.
He said the Budget not only recognises their achievements but also prioritises their long-term wellbeing after retirement from competitive sports.
Nizam said Sabah athletes receive victory incentives and national representation incentives, including an additional 50 per cent on top of federal incentives.
He said other support includes EPF contributions for Sukma and Para Sukma athletes, entrepreneurship assistance through the Syabas youth fund, special entry pathways into higher education institutions and priority employment opportunities within state agencies.
He added that grassroots talent development is being strengthened through grants under his Ministry.
This includes RM5 million in assistance to State sports associations, the establishment of state training centres under the Sabah Sports Council and the provision of sports equipment to Sabah Sports School and Sabah athletes studying at sports schools nationwide.
Nizam also revealed plans to introduce an Athletes Welfare Fund to support current and former Sabah athletes.
He said the initiative is part of a comprehensive effort to build a sustainable, inclusive and competitive sports ecosystem in the State.
On a proposal by Banggi Assemblyman Datuk Mohammad Mohamarin for a sports complex on Pulau Banggi, Nizam said the suggestion had been noted.
However, he said the Ministry’s current policy prioritises the provision of one sports complex per district.
Responding to proposals by Liawan (Datuk Nik Mohd Nadzri Nik Zawawi) and a nominated assemblyman for motor sports tracks in Keningau and Kampung Laya-Laya, Tuaran, Nizam said the Ministry plans to develop a motor sports circuit in Sabah.
He said studies would be carried out to identify suitable locations.
In closing, Nizam said he was encouraged by widespread calls for increased funding for his Ministry.
“I deeply appreciate the support of all honourable members,” he said, urging assemblymen to continue working in the interests of Sabahans with dedication and empathy.
