Those (144) athletes are expected to take part in the intensified national training program starting Jan. 17.

The basic idea of the new system is to empower the federations so that they become more independent to develop themselves.

We will no doubt monitor more intensively the progress made by our ‘golden boys’ during the preparation for the Asian Games. We will ensure adequate equipment for training, better coaching and proper tune-ups for them.

However, should the federations want to give higher salaries (than the limit), they would have to raise the money themselves.