LTAM needs RM2.5 mln for 2019 development programme

KUALA LUMPUR: The Lawn Tennis Association ofMalaysia (LTAM) is in need of RM2.5 million for the development programme of tennis this year.

LTAM president, Mirzan Mahathir said the initial budget was to organise tournaments, participate in international championships to develop athletes, management as well as to pay the salaries of coaches.

“At the very least we need RM1.8 million but to be more comfortable especially to provide exposure to players we need RM2.5 million.

“LTAM is not a very popular association so we need help as our financial position is quite critical. We hope there would be sponsorship from the private sector as we do not generate any income,” he told the media after launching the 2019 National Tennis Circuit and Junior Circuit.

He said LTAM hoped to organise at least 15 tournaments for junior players and 25 championships for senior players.

In an another development, Mirzan admitted LTAM also faced the problem of settling the salary arrears of coaches last year nonetheless the issue was settled before the 2019 season begins.

He said the issue of outstanding wages was due to the lack of allocation from the National Sports Council (MSN) as well as sponsors which made LTAM to be very prudent with its expenditure and the delay in paying coaches.

“Last year, the situation was really bad especially after the 29th SEA Games ended. Nonetheless, there are coaches who understand and are willing to cooperate with LTAM after knowing our predicament.

“For this year, we hope to get slightly more allocation so as not to jeopardise athletes' development like last year,” he said. - Bernama