Kelantan Athletes To Get Education Loans, Scholarships From YAKIN

Oleh Azli Shafii

KOTA BHARU, Aug 13 (Bernama) -- The Kelantan Sports Council is working with Yayasan Kelantan Darulnaim (YAKIN) to coordinate loans and scholarships for athletes seeking to continue their studies at public universities.

State Youth, Sports, NGOs and Community Unity Committee chairman Zamakhshari Muhamad said the initiative was part of the state government’s latest efforts to ensure athletes’ development extended beyond sports to education.

“Education is also a key focus alongside sports development. Athletes with potential will be supported to further their studies at public higher education institutions, while those who achieve outstanding SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) and STPM (Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia) results will receive academic excellence incentives,” he told Bernama recently.

He said the state government, through the Kelantan Sports Council, also provides various benefits to athletes under the Special Programme, including monthly allowances for athletes under its Imtiyaz programme, funding to participate in domestic and international competitions, as well as sports equipment and nutritional supplements.

He said the initiative sought to meet athletes’ training needs and enhance their performance, while giving them room to excel in their studies.

“To safeguard athletes’ welfare, support is also provided in the event of natural disasters, accidents, marriage and bereavement,” he said.

According to Zamakhshari, the initiatives' strategic partners include the National Sports Council, state education and youth and sports departments, and public and private higher education institutions.

He expressed hope that the facilities would spur Kelantan athletes to pursue excellence in sports, education and personal development.

-- BERNAMA