MSN Management Board member praises former Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh’s reforms strengthening athlete welfare
by Jacqueline Raphael · Borneo Post OnlineMIRI (Dec 18): National Sports Council (MSN) Management Board member Alan Ling has credited former Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh with introducing meaningful reforms that strengthened athlete welfare and governance during her three-year tenure at the ministry.
While expressing surprise at Yeoh’s recent change of portfolio, Ling conveyed his appreciation for her contributions to the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) and extended his best wishes as she assumes her new role as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Federal Territories.
Ling said he did not anticipate the reshuffle, noting that Yeoh had been overseeing preparations for the SEA Games 2027 and monitoring the performance of the Malaysian contingent competing in Thailand during the SEA Games 2025.
“She is a dedicated minister who always thinks of what is best for athletes,” he said in an interview, adding that several initiatives introduced under Yeoh’s leadership marked significant improvements, particularly through MSN.
Among the key reforms, Ling highlighted the introduction of formal employment contracts for national athletes, replacing the previous allowance-based system. Under the new structure, athletes receive salaries along with mandatory contributions to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and Social Security Organisation (Socso), providing greater job security and financial protection. The ministry contributes 13 per cent to EPF, while athletes contribute 11 per cent from their salaries.
He also noted the increase in baseline monthly salaries for athletes under the podium programme and para-athletes to about RM1,500, nearly doubling previous rates for many recipients.
In addition, Ling pointed to the launch of the Safe Sports Code, which was introduced to guide sports bodies, clarify responsibilities and address abuse and misconduct in sports, in line with international best practices.
Ling, who is also vice-president of the Sarawak Volleyball Association, said Yeoh was widely regarded by athletes and coaches as approachable and responsive.
“All athletes will confirm this. YB Hannah Yeoh is easily approachable and always has the heart and time for athletes and coaches who wish to raise issues or concerns. She is willing to listen and provide assistance whenever needed,” he said.
Describing her as a “no-nonsense minister” when it comes to youth development and policy reform, Ling said KBS would miss her dynamic leadership.
“I wish her well in her new portfolio as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Federal Territories, and I am confident she will do well in her new role,” he added.