HYROX 2026: KBS Will Not Approve Event Unless Alcohol Sponsorship Is Withdrawn
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) will not approve the organisation of HYROX Kuala Lumpur 2026 unless sponsorship from an alcoholic beverage company associated with the event is completely withdrawn.
Its minister, Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari, said the application to organise the event, scheduled to take place from December 10 to 13 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, was still being processed and had yet to receive KBS approval.
He clarified that the ministry had also not provided any funding for the event.
According to him, the ministry’s stance is in line with the Safe Sports Code, which prohibits companies associated with tobacco products, electronic cigarettes and alcoholic beverages from sponsoring, promoting or displaying their trademarks at sporting events approved or supported by KBS.
As such, the organisers must completely withdraw the sponsorship, including removing all related logos, trademarks and promotional materials from the event’s official channels and competition venue.
Meanwhile, KBS reminded organisers that Section 36(1) of the Sports Development Act 1997 requires companies to obtain a licence from the Sports Commissioner of Malaysia before engaging in sporting activities.
Failure to comply with the provision may result in a fine of between RM50,000 and RM500,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
KBS stressed that the regulations apply to all organisers without exception to ensure a safe and healthy sporting environment for all participants.
Astro AWANI