Kuala Lumpur has been picked for the first time to host the Asian Youth Rhythmic Championship from Feb 13-18 next year.

Malaysian Gymnastics Federation (MGF) president A. Razak Mat Amin said 15 to 20 nations were expected to take part in the championship which is in its 13th edition.

"We will form a strong team for the championship because we have many gymrama athletes who are good and talented. I hope they will train diligently and contribute medals to the nation," he said.

He said the championship would also be an exposure and preparation other than unearthing new talents for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland and the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Asked on the aspiration of MGF to list artistic gymnast Esmelda Arecia Menti Alfred Geling, 13, from Sarawak to the national squad, A Razak said the matter must be discussed first with the National Sports Council (MSN).

"However, a meeting between MGF and MSN has not been decided yet. Esmelda is still young..if her family wants to release her to study at the Bukit Jalil Sport School, it is something very good as we can polish her talent," he said.

Esmelda Arecia, who was crowned Sportswoman of the 16th Malaysia Games (Sukma)recently, contributed two gold medals, three silver and a bronze to the Sarawak contingent at the festival.