Malaysian weightlifters delivered an unforgettable performance at the Commonwealth Games, claiming five gold medals and reshaping national conversations about the country’s sporting potential. For years, badminton and hockey have dominated the spotlight, but the lifters’ success challenges that narrative. Their achievements highlight a new possibility: Malaysia’s international medal count could come from a wider range of sports if they receive proper support.
Senior sports analyst Sadek Mustaffa, a lecturer at UiTM in sports science, has called for a major shift in how the nation funds its athletes. He pointed to the historic Glasgow campaign as proof that non-traditional sports can shine when given the right backing. However, he warned that results like these are only possible with a solid investment strategy. 'You give peanuts, you get monkeys,' Sadek said, stressing that minimal resources lead to minimal outcomes. Malaysia must prepare to invest seriously in people and systems if it wants world-class success.
The Role of Coaches
A key part of Sadek’s argument centers on the role of coaches. These individuals play a crucial part in shaping athletes, refining techniques, and developing physical and mental strength. Yet, he said they remain underappreciated and underpaid. The current funding for the national weightlifting program is just over RM3 million, an amount he described as insufficient for sustained success. 'Behind every medal is a coach who has spent years preparing an athlete for the pressures of competition. Their contributions must be recognized and rewarded,' Sadek emphasized.
One of the most promising signs for Malaysian weightlifting is the age of its medal-winning athletes. Three of the five gold medalists are under 25, indicating a strong pipeline of young talent. Sadek believes these athletes could go on to win honors at the 2028 Los Angeles and 2032 Brisbane Olympics, but only if the system continues to invest in their development. He stressed that raw talent alone is not enough. Sustained funding, mentorship, and long-term planning are all essential to building a competitive edge.
The Malaysian Weightlifting Federation has taken steps to secure more funding and support for the sport. It has requested an annual allocation of RM1 million from the Youth and Sports Ministry, a proposal that has received backing from the Olympic Council of Malaysia. The funding would focus on grassroots development and improving coach welfare. This push comes as the federation highlights the critical role of state-level coaches, who often work with limited resources and no retirement benefits. Their work is vital in developing the next generation of national champions.
Sadek also addressed the sport’s broader ecosystem. Unlike badminton, which has a well-established talent pipeline and regular international competitions, weightlifting is still in the process of building a solid foundation. He argued that Malaysia must create more opportunities for young lifters, including structured coaching programs and events that allow them to compete against the best. 'Sports like badminton already have a mature ecosystem. Weightlifting is in the early stages of building something similar,' he said.
A System, Not a One-Time Hit
Long-Term Planning and Governance
Sadek stressed that the Commonwealth Games success should not be seen as a fluke. Instead, it marks the start of a new chapter for Malaysian weightlifting. To turn this momentum into lasting success, he called for long-term planning and investment. 'This must mark the beginning of a new era,' he said. That means building a system where athletes, coaches, and federations work together toward common goals.
He also emphasized the importance of strong governance and leadership. The Malaysian Weightlifting Federation must ensure that it has the right people in place to guide the sport forward. These leaders need experience, qualifications, and a clear vision aligned with national standards set by the National Sports Council and Olympic Council of Malaysia. Sadek believes that only with strong leadership can the sport maintain its upward trajectory and continue producing champions.
Improving Coach Welfare
Beyond funding and leadership, the federation has also called on the Youth and Sports Ministry to improve the welfare of state-level coaches. Many of these individuals earn meager salaries and have no access to retirement funds, despite their critical role in training national athletes. The federation argues that without proper support for these unsung heroes, the sport’s success will be difficult to sustain.
The Malaysian Weightlifting Federation is determined to turn its recent success into a foundation for future triumphs. With support from the Olympic Council of Malaysia and calls for increased funding, the sport is positioned to grow. Sadek’s message is clear: Malaysia must treat weightlifting as a strategic priority if it wants to compete at the highest levels on the world stage. Only by investing in people, systems, and long-term planning can the country truly build a legacy of champions.