IPOH MAYOR CALLS ON MBI STAFF TO DEFEND 2026 MALA CHAMPIONSHIP

IPOH, 13 FEBRUARY 2026 (FRIDAY) – Ipoh City Council (MBI) continues to prove its excellence when it emerged as the Overall Champion of the 2024 MALA Sports Carnival, collecting a total of 58 points.

Ipoh Mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah said the success reflected the commitment, discipline and high team spirit among MBI staff, not only in the aspects of city administration and services, but also in the sporting arena.

He said this in his speech at the 2024 MALA Sports Appreciation Ceremony held at 3.00 pm today.

“This success is not just a victory, but the result of solid teamwork, efficient management and the unwavering fighting spirit of the athletes. Well done and congratulations to all the athletes, team managers and secretariat who have brought glory to MBI at the national level,” he said.

According to him, the MALA Sports Carnival is not only a competition platform, but also plays a role in strengthening sportsmanship, nurturing leadership values and mental resilience, and fostering strategic network collaboration among Local Authorities (PBTs) nationwide.

At the same time, he announced that MALA 2026 will be organised as a more comprehensive biennial event involving 15 types of sports, including the introduction of new events, such as Petanque, E-Sports, Snooker and Volleyball.

MALA 2026 will be held in 12 different locations as a symbol of unity and collaboration among PBTs. The opening events are scheduled to take place at Majlis Perbandaran Bentong in April 2026 for golf and sepak takraw, while the futsal final will be held at Majlis Bandaraya Klang as the highlight of the prestigious sports carnival.

The Mayor also stressed that the success as the Overall Champion of MALA 2024 is a great trust that must be shouldered with full responsibility.

“Becoming a champion is an achievement, but defending the championship requires stronger discipline, sacrifice and unity. I want all athletes who step onto the MALA 2026 arena to have the mentality of true champions and the courage to defend MBI’s honour,” he said.

He also expressed his appreciation to the retired members of Kelab Sukan Dewan Bandaraya Ipoh (KSDBI) for their contributions and dedication, and congratulated the children of KSDBI members who achieved sporting excellence last year.