Youth & Sports Ministry: HYROX KL Event “Will Not Be Approved” Unless Alcohol Sponsors Withdraw

Recently, screenshots of an announcement naming an alcoholic beverage company as the “Official Beer Partner” of an international fitness competition went viral online

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) has made it clear that the HYROX Kuala Lumpur 2026 event will not be approved unless sponsorship from alcohol companies is completely withdrawn.

HYROX event won’t be approved unless alcohol sponsorship and promotional materials are removed

Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said the application to organise the event, which is scheduled to take place from 10 to 13 December, is still being processed and has yet to receive KBS’ approval, as reported by Berita Harian.

Mohammed Taufiq said the Ministry’s firm stance also includes requiring all related logos, trademarks and promotional materials to be removed from every official event channel and competition venue before any approval can be considered.

“For the record, the application to organise the event is currently being processed and has not been approved. KBS has not granted any approval or allocated any funds to this event.

“Article 5.2 of the Safe Sports Code (Third Edition, 2024) clearly prohibits individuals or organisations involved in the tobacco, electronic cigarette or alcoholic beverage businesses from organising, sponsoring, promoting, advertising or displaying their trademarks at sports activities approved or supported by KBS and its agencies,” he said.

He added that all licence applications submitted by companies wishing to organise sporting events require organisers to declare their commitment to implementing the Safe Sports Code.

Rules apply to all organisers

Mohammed Taufiq stressed that the regulations apply to all organisers without exception, including companies involved in the tobacco, electronic cigarette and alcoholic beverage industries, regardless of their brands or target audiences.

He also reminded organisers that Section 36(1) of the Sports Development Act 1997 (Act 576) prohibits companies from participating in sporting activities unless they are licensed by the Commissioner of Sports Malaysia.

Those who fail to comply could face fines ranging from RM50,000 to RM500,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both.

“KBS will not compromise when it comes to ensuring a safe and healthy sporting environment for all participants,” he said.

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