Mohamad Norza Zakaria, president of the Commonwealth Games Association of Malaysia, called it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity … which will build on the success of Kuala Lumpur 1998 and put Malaysia back onto the world sporting map”.
A CGF spokesperson suggested that Malaysia was not the only country that could potentially stage the Games in 2026, saying the organisation was “in advanced, confidential discussions with potential hosts”.
But the spokesperson added: “Malaysia has a fantastic track record of delivering sporting events, and the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur were hugely successful.
“We are encouraged by their early concepts of building on this legacy through use of many of the same world-class facilities.”
The spokesperson said that the £100 million of “financial and strategic support” was on offer for any potential host as part of the Victoria withdrawal settlement.
CNA has contacted the CGF for more information on the other potential host cities it may be in talks with.
