Monetary lure in sports
ARE we so desperate for achievements that we are prepared to dangle carrots to our national athletes to get results?
What has happened to national pride and honour in doing the nation proud with achievement?
Yes, sports is in the modern era has moved to a new level where rewards are part and parcel of the game.
But it was indeed sad and pathetic that the national soccer team need to be motivated with ringgit and sen to win the ongoing Asean Football Federation (AFF) championship.
Was the prize money of US$100,000 (RM350,000) was not enough to motivate the national players to do proud to the nation?
Menteri Besar of Selangor and FA of Selangor president, Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo, in a surprise visit to the national team this week prior to the first leg semifinals clash of the Malaysia and Singapore, offered RM100,000 if the team won the AFF championship.
Then there is another RM100,000 for grabs which is offered by the FA of Malaysia’s new attire sponsor, Nike.
All in all there is RM550,000 for grabs for the players if they won.
Well and good, that there are individuals who have come up with incentives for the national team to do well.
But is this the sort of culture we want to cultivate among our sportsmen and women.
There is no denying that rewards will be fortcoming whenever a national athlete or team succeeds at international level and it is not a sin to give rewards for a job well done and as appreciation. And I have no qualms about that, because athletes should be rewarded.
And knowing the President of FA of Malaysia, the Sultan of Pahang, he himself will reward the players if they produce noteworthy achievements, without even the players asking.
But to dangle a carrot for national athletes to perform? I take strong objection to that because I feel it is an insult.
Do soldiers who go to war, are dangled with monetary carrots to win the war or battle? What about all the doctors who are fighting to save a life, are they paid incentives to save that life?
Agreed that Malaysian soccer has not won a major title since 1989, when they won the Sea Games gold medal beating Singapore on that raining night at the Merdeka Stadium on Aug 31.
But have we become so desperate that we have to offer cash money for our national athletes to bring honours to the nation.
What saddens even more that that the monetary offer is for a tournament which is considered the lowest in the region – an Asean tournament. It is not even an Asian tournament.
Have we gone so desperate that we are prepared to reward for mediocrity?
And it is not surprising, because we here in Malaysian even offer cash rewards for achievement in Malaysia Games (Sukma) which is a Games to development and unearth new young talent!
On Tuesday night on the first leg game day itself, I kept asking myself as I walked out of the Shah Alam Stadium where the Malaysians were held to a 1-1 draw, what better incentives could the players have asked for to motivate themselves, then when they took the one goal lead.
Whether the goal scored by Muhammad Hardi Jaafar was an intended attempt at goal or a cross into the penalty box, it was a gem of a goal and it should have spurred the players to greater heights.
But it did not. Maybe, they needed the 25,000 fans to scream that they will each be donating RM10 each to the team besides the RM 10 they paid to watch and scream their lungs off in support of the team, for the players to win the match!
I did not see much urgency on the players to at least keep the slim lead, let alone increase the lead, as they allowed a “soft goal” by Singapore to pull level.
Let us not spoil our athletes with all sorts of incentives, especially when the achievement is at the lowest level.
Let us reward for Asian and Olympic level achievements and set standards that we can be proud.
While on the subject of achievement, the young badminton doubles pair of Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong and golfer Airil Rizman Zahari who won the Malaysian Open and Pakistan Open respectively, did not see carrots dangled at them to win their titles.
They had to fight it out tooth and nail to win their titles and the prize money offered. And these are the kind of achievement we can be proud of.
While congratulations is certainly in order for Koo and Tan for winning their second consecutive title after having bagged the gold medal at the Asian Games in Doha, it is hoped that the duo who have tremendous potential, will keep their feet firm on the ground and not allow success to get to their head.
The talented duo like level headed players who will not get too big for their shoes, but instead will continue to strive hard to continue to do well. And these are the kind of athletes who can become role models and even if rewarded, it will be worthwhile and no issues to be made off.
It is hoped that Malaysian sports in their desperation to see success, do not set low standards and reward for mediocre results and become a laughing stalk in the eyes of the sporting world.
Let our sportsmen and women be true champions, which we can really be proud of and the only way to achieve it is cheer hard work, determination, discipline, commitment and above all passion for the sports and nation.
Let us be proud of 50 years of independence and show some solid and concrete achievements that we really can be proud off in sports.
Showing posts with label Arena Sukan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Arena Sukan. Show all posts
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Athletes' dedication in question again (2007 - Malaysian Today)
Athletes' dedication in question again
IT is inevitable that the dedication of present day athletes has to be brought up once again, in the wake of the Government rewarding RM 6,950,800 last night at the dinner attended by the Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to athletes under Sports Winning Rewards Scheme (Skim Hadiah Kemenangkan Sukan – SHAKAM).
The athletes who were rewarded were the winners at the December 15th Doha Asian Games and the 9th Fespic Games hosted by Kuala Lumpur in November.
The athletes from the Doha Asian Games collected a total of RM2,246,000 for the total of eight gold, 17 silver and 17 bronze medals, while the physically challenged athletes pocketed RM 4,704,800.
Athlete Lee Sheng Chow was the biggest beneficiary from the Fespic Games with a total of RM190,00 for winning two gold and one silver, while bowler Esther Cheah took home RM198,333 for two gold and three silver medals.
Although, there are concerns that the physically challenged athletes should have a separate scheme because their events are unique in nature, the Government while the scheme comes in place, did not leave them out and gave the same as for the abled athletes under the SHAKAM.
The point is that be it a physically challenged athlete or able athlete, when they bring honours, they are handsomely rewarded.
These rewards are besides being the athletes fully sponsored by the National Sports Council where training allowance, accommodation, meals, education, medical benefits, sports science, training, coaches, air fares and even overseas stints, are all provided for.
In most sports even the prize money from tournaments goes back to the athletes.
Indeed, Malaysian athletes are a very lucky lot.
But sadly, a majority either do not realise it, or think that they are not getting enough.
It really puzzles as to why Malaysian athletes are not motivated enough to excel in sports and reach excellence results, as there is ample rewards awaiting them.
Infact, Malaysia is an envy of many foreign countries and athletes, where their athletes have to pay their own fare for international competitions like the Commonwealth Games and when the athletes win a gold medal, all they get is a handshake from their top Government officials and a commendation letter – not a single sen is paid in rewards.
For these athletes, their performance with their nation is a stepping-stone in their ambitions to become professionals in the respective sports.
And the sacrifice made by the athletes from these nations are immense, just to make the grade and move to the professional circuit where they have to continue to work hard to earn their rewards.
For all the money the Malaysian Government is dedicating towards sports, we should be producing champions in almost every sport we compete.
But it is not the case, because Malaysian athletes are a pampered lot, who are easily satisfied, do not have ambitions and more often then not get rewarded some mediocre performance, which is not even Asian standard.
Maybe, it is time for athletes to be made accountable too and should be asked to sign contracts for the funding they get, where when they fail to achieve certain standards, they have to pay back the Government, or have to serve the sports for a number of years under different categories based on their qualification.
What we have now is athletes continuously complaining that they are not getting enough and do not even have performances worth mentioning.
Of course sport globally has changed to a professional approach and cannot be compared to the earlier years when it was all about pride, passion and honour.
At the same time these, these values cannot be completely disregarded.
These days we have soccer players who ask the team manager at halftime, if their bonus is going to be topped up, so that they can go on to win the match!
We have top athletes quitting the sports at an early age, just because they have won some money through the rewards scheme.
To make it worse, these athletes do not even give back anything to the sports or society, what they have learnt and earned through sports.
More often than not there is politicking, bickering and mismanagement in sports associations and more often the parents too have joined in the bandwagon to make demands and make threats in what they consider is in the best interest of their children.
While applaud the athletes, both the physically challenged an d able athletes for their achievement, it must be stressed to them, that this is only the beginning and tey should have bigger goals and dreams to achieve.
It probably time to review the incentive scheme where lump sums of money are not paid, but where one secures the future of these athletes, where a bulk of the money is only paid out when they retire, in form of a monthly allowance.
Maybe, even look at the Korean model, where points are awarded for each success at a international level and the longer one stays in the sports and bring honours, the more points which are accumulated and get high pensions for life.
Rewarding our athletes is all good, but with large sums of money being given out, it has to be a win-win situation for both the athletes and the government and at the same time ensuring that performance at the highest level is always on the upward trend.
Sports is a serious business in Malaysia and it is about time the athletes realise it and act as professionals to give back the equivalent returns as they are supported and rewarded.
IT is inevitable that the dedication of present day athletes has to be brought up once again, in the wake of the Government rewarding RM 6,950,800 last night at the dinner attended by the Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to athletes under Sports Winning Rewards Scheme (Skim Hadiah Kemenangkan Sukan – SHAKAM).
The athletes who were rewarded were the winners at the December 15th Doha Asian Games and the 9th Fespic Games hosted by Kuala Lumpur in November.
The athletes from the Doha Asian Games collected a total of RM2,246,000 for the total of eight gold, 17 silver and 17 bronze medals, while the physically challenged athletes pocketed RM 4,704,800.
Athlete Lee Sheng Chow was the biggest beneficiary from the Fespic Games with a total of RM190,00 for winning two gold and one silver, while bowler Esther Cheah took home RM198,333 for two gold and three silver medals.
Although, there are concerns that the physically challenged athletes should have a separate scheme because their events are unique in nature, the Government while the scheme comes in place, did not leave them out and gave the same as for the abled athletes under the SHAKAM.
The point is that be it a physically challenged athlete or able athlete, when they bring honours, they are handsomely rewarded.
These rewards are besides being the athletes fully sponsored by the National Sports Council where training allowance, accommodation, meals, education, medical benefits, sports science, training, coaches, air fares and even overseas stints, are all provided for.
In most sports even the prize money from tournaments goes back to the athletes.
Indeed, Malaysian athletes are a very lucky lot.
But sadly, a majority either do not realise it, or think that they are not getting enough.
It really puzzles as to why Malaysian athletes are not motivated enough to excel in sports and reach excellence results, as there is ample rewards awaiting them.
Infact, Malaysia is an envy of many foreign countries and athletes, where their athletes have to pay their own fare for international competitions like the Commonwealth Games and when the athletes win a gold medal, all they get is a handshake from their top Government officials and a commendation letter – not a single sen is paid in rewards.
For these athletes, their performance with their nation is a stepping-stone in their ambitions to become professionals in the respective sports.
And the sacrifice made by the athletes from these nations are immense, just to make the grade and move to the professional circuit where they have to continue to work hard to earn their rewards.
For all the money the Malaysian Government is dedicating towards sports, we should be producing champions in almost every sport we compete.
But it is not the case, because Malaysian athletes are a pampered lot, who are easily satisfied, do not have ambitions and more often then not get rewarded some mediocre performance, which is not even Asian standard.
Maybe, it is time for athletes to be made accountable too and should be asked to sign contracts for the funding they get, where when they fail to achieve certain standards, they have to pay back the Government, or have to serve the sports for a number of years under different categories based on their qualification.
What we have now is athletes continuously complaining that they are not getting enough and do not even have performances worth mentioning.
Of course sport globally has changed to a professional approach and cannot be compared to the earlier years when it was all about pride, passion and honour.
At the same time these, these values cannot be completely disregarded.
These days we have soccer players who ask the team manager at halftime, if their bonus is going to be topped up, so that they can go on to win the match!
We have top athletes quitting the sports at an early age, just because they have won some money through the rewards scheme.
To make it worse, these athletes do not even give back anything to the sports or society, what they have learnt and earned through sports.
More often than not there is politicking, bickering and mismanagement in sports associations and more often the parents too have joined in the bandwagon to make demands and make threats in what they consider is in the best interest of their children.
While applaud the athletes, both the physically challenged an d able athletes for their achievement, it must be stressed to them, that this is only the beginning and tey should have bigger goals and dreams to achieve.
It probably time to review the incentive scheme where lump sums of money are not paid, but where one secures the future of these athletes, where a bulk of the money is only paid out when they retire, in form of a monthly allowance.
Maybe, even look at the Korean model, where points are awarded for each success at a international level and the longer one stays in the sports and bring honours, the more points which are accumulated and get high pensions for life.
Rewarding our athletes is all good, but with large sums of money being given out, it has to be a win-win situation for both the athletes and the government and at the same time ensuring that performance at the highest level is always on the upward trend.
Sports is a serious business in Malaysia and it is about time the athletes realise it and act as professionals to give back the equivalent returns as they are supported and rewarded.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Sporting shame (2007 - Malaysian Today)
Sporting shame
MALAYSIAN athletes have yet to establish themselves as world-renowned personalities, but they are already acting like prima donnas.
Even the few who have been making a name for themselves in the world arena, have yet to reach “star” status with consistent performance over a number of years.
Malaysian athletes lack the character to display true sportsmanship, professionalism and portray themselves as an icon for the future generation.
Malaysian sportsmen and women generally being labeled as spoilt and pampered lot and there will be no smoke without fire.
The scribe witnessed a few incidents this week, which only confirmed that Malaysian athletes have a long way before they can stand out with distinction in the world arena.
One shocking incident was when the national soccer team was returning from Singapore by flight after their semifinals defeat to Singapore in the Asean Football Federation soccer tournament on Sunday, were a disgrace to budding youngsters who had ambitions to be national players one day.
Although returning as a team after the defeat, the players were seated all over the plane. (Prior arrangement could have been made for them all to be seated together).
What was even more shocking was the same players were seated with either their wives or girlfriends.
And the “women” were all over their men during the flight and it was a disgusting sight especially with the players in national colours and traveling as a team.
It is learnt that these “women” also stayed in the same hotel, as the team.
There is no harm for wives and girlfriends to support their men, but they should travel separately and stay in a different hotel.
Even the top teams in the world for the World Cup do not condone such behavior from their players. (Wives and girlfriends travel for the World Cup but separately and stay in different hotels and are only allowed to meet at stipulated times and venues. But for the World Cup the players are on assignment for almost for a month).
The Malaysian team was in Singapore for just three days!
But the height of the situation of the national team was when a player was seen walking out from the plane with his hands locked with his wife or girlfriend.
What kind on impression would have this player given to the public at the airport.
Certainly did not speak much of the character of the team nor the player.
Lets forget about the players showing some remorse for their exit from the AFF tournament, but least the players should have the decency to behave in the public.
Traveling on the same flight were two young fans – college students – who has attired themselves with the latest Nike jersey the Malaysian team is equipped with and would have paid close to RM300.
The duo was diehard fans because they not only were wearing the expensive and brand new Malaysian jersey, but had flown in to watch the game.
What kind of impression or example, would have the national soccer players given these two young fans – that life as a national soccer players is all about glamour, women and fun?
The FA of Malaysia should get to the bottom of this matter, at least for the same of the sake of whatever image the national soccer team has!
Then in other sports like gymnastics and badminton, we have players who demand who they train under and where they train. Parents too have joined the bandwagon and in the pretext of wanting the best for their children, make unwarranted demands and accuse the administrators of all sorts of shortcomings.
Then, we even have parents who go the extend of thinking of asking monetary gains for interviews.
In athletics there was discontentment among a few athletes, over the scholarships awarded by the Higher Education Ministry, despite already on scholarships which maybe not as lucrative in terms of monetary as the recent scholarships offered, but had other values like prolonging their courses or deferring their dates of examination.
What is it with these athletes? They demand anything and everything, but when it comes to performances, it is questionable.
And the government is pumping in millions into sports, only to find athletes who shortchange them in all accounts.
To make it all heart aching, is the fact that they do not even have noteworthy performances shouting about.
Athletes had better take a good look in the mirror and realise that there is much more they can give then keep demanding the authorities for the sky and moon.
They has better realise their follies fast enough, before one fine day, the Government might just decide to take their legs of the pedal to support sports because it is losing cause.
Ask what you can do for the nation and not what the nation can do for you!
Produce the results and stand tall and all will be duly recognised. But do not short change the tax payers money and hope to get way scot-free all the time.
MALAYSIAN athletes have yet to establish themselves as world-renowned personalities, but they are already acting like prima donnas.
Even the few who have been making a name for themselves in the world arena, have yet to reach “star” status with consistent performance over a number of years.
Malaysian athletes lack the character to display true sportsmanship, professionalism and portray themselves as an icon for the future generation.
Malaysian sportsmen and women generally being labeled as spoilt and pampered lot and there will be no smoke without fire.
The scribe witnessed a few incidents this week, which only confirmed that Malaysian athletes have a long way before they can stand out with distinction in the world arena.
One shocking incident was when the national soccer team was returning from Singapore by flight after their semifinals defeat to Singapore in the Asean Football Federation soccer tournament on Sunday, were a disgrace to budding youngsters who had ambitions to be national players one day.
Although returning as a team after the defeat, the players were seated all over the plane. (Prior arrangement could have been made for them all to be seated together).
What was even more shocking was the same players were seated with either their wives or girlfriends.
And the “women” were all over their men during the flight and it was a disgusting sight especially with the players in national colours and traveling as a team.
It is learnt that these “women” also stayed in the same hotel, as the team.
There is no harm for wives and girlfriends to support their men, but they should travel separately and stay in a different hotel.
Even the top teams in the world for the World Cup do not condone such behavior from their players. (Wives and girlfriends travel for the World Cup but separately and stay in different hotels and are only allowed to meet at stipulated times and venues. But for the World Cup the players are on assignment for almost for a month).
The Malaysian team was in Singapore for just three days!
But the height of the situation of the national team was when a player was seen walking out from the plane with his hands locked with his wife or girlfriend.
What kind on impression would have this player given to the public at the airport.
Certainly did not speak much of the character of the team nor the player.
Lets forget about the players showing some remorse for their exit from the AFF tournament, but least the players should have the decency to behave in the public.
Traveling on the same flight were two young fans – college students – who has attired themselves with the latest Nike jersey the Malaysian team is equipped with and would have paid close to RM300.
The duo was diehard fans because they not only were wearing the expensive and brand new Malaysian jersey, but had flown in to watch the game.
What kind of impression or example, would have the national soccer players given these two young fans – that life as a national soccer players is all about glamour, women and fun?
The FA of Malaysia should get to the bottom of this matter, at least for the same of the sake of whatever image the national soccer team has!
Then in other sports like gymnastics and badminton, we have players who demand who they train under and where they train. Parents too have joined the bandwagon and in the pretext of wanting the best for their children, make unwarranted demands and accuse the administrators of all sorts of shortcomings.
Then, we even have parents who go the extend of thinking of asking monetary gains for interviews.
In athletics there was discontentment among a few athletes, over the scholarships awarded by the Higher Education Ministry, despite already on scholarships which maybe not as lucrative in terms of monetary as the recent scholarships offered, but had other values like prolonging their courses or deferring their dates of examination.
What is it with these athletes? They demand anything and everything, but when it comes to performances, it is questionable.
And the government is pumping in millions into sports, only to find athletes who shortchange them in all accounts.
To make it all heart aching, is the fact that they do not even have noteworthy performances shouting about.
Athletes had better take a good look in the mirror and realise that there is much more they can give then keep demanding the authorities for the sky and moon.
They has better realise their follies fast enough, before one fine day, the Government might just decide to take their legs of the pedal to support sports because it is losing cause.
Ask what you can do for the nation and not what the nation can do for you!
Produce the results and stand tall and all will be duly recognised. But do not short change the tax payers money and hope to get way scot-free all the time.
States Associations the key players (2007 - Malaysian Today)
State Associations the key players
State associations play a key role in charting the progress of Malaysian sports.
They not only hold the key to implementing the programmes launched by the national associations and carrying out their daily work at the grassroot level effectively, but they play a key role in electing the right people to lead them from the national level.
State associations are considered the king makers, for it is their votes and candidates who make the national association presidents.
But often, instead of using the power they have in their hands wisely, they are blinded by internal bickering, politicking in their associations and making themselves powerful in the process, when electing their presidents.
Recently, the Malaysian Amateur Athletic Union (MAAU) in their Annual General Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, elected a new president in Perlis Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim.
Certainly, Shahidan is a good man for the post, but the question is whether he will have the time to be hands on the administration and progress of the association.
Afterall, Shahidan, already heads the Amateur Swimming Association of Malaysia (ASUM), the Perlis Football Association and Malaysian Kabbadi Association.
There was a move sometime ago to limit the number of top posts an individual can hold in sports association to ensure that the same official does not spread himself thin in serving the various associations one heads.
But nothing concrete came off it.
It is great that Shahidan is a popular choice and it must be because he delivers, especially in terms of finding funds for the association.
But will there not be a conflict of interest in his daily chores, will he not be going to the same source to assist the associations he heads and have his plate full to handle to the various woes of the association.
Or is it that the affiliates in MAAU have put him as the president, so that others can run the association, as he might not have the time to be hands on most of the time.
Interestingly, a man who is dedicated to working hard at his job, Admiral (Rtd) Datuk Danyal Balagopal, who has a record of being a driving force trying to put MAAU on the right footing, had stood against Shahidan and lost.
In the process, Danyal, who was the deputy president, had to relinquish the post as he went for brokes.
The chances that Danyal being persuaded to return to his deputy president post looks remote as the “king makers” within would not want that.
Shahidan will definitely find the money for MAAU’s activities, but whether he is going to see it put to good use will be the million ringgit question.
Rumours have already started among the sports circle that Shahidan might even run for a post in the FA of Malaysia and even the Olympic Council of Malaysia.
As for a post in OCM, he probably has already paved his way with the support of the two associations he heads – MAAU and ASUM.
As for FA of Malaysia, it is left to be seen.
It is good that top leaders come forward to assist State and National Sports Associations, but they must be careful not to spread themselves thin and at the same time subject themselves to talk from the public that they are “power crazy”.
They also must be careful not too be accused of not doing enough for sports in their own State, but take on to become national presidents.
It certainly does not do justice to these leaders on being just “puppet presidents”.
Maybe, Shahidan, is a different and he can handle a few associations in his stable and bring forth the desired results in each. He will then become a rare breed of sports leaders.
But in the best interest of sports in the country, it is best that sports leaders do not take on more than they can chew.
State associations play a key role in charting the progress of Malaysian sports.
They not only hold the key to implementing the programmes launched by the national associations and carrying out their daily work at the grassroot level effectively, but they play a key role in electing the right people to lead them from the national level.
State associations are considered the king makers, for it is their votes and candidates who make the national association presidents.
But often, instead of using the power they have in their hands wisely, they are blinded by internal bickering, politicking in their associations and making themselves powerful in the process, when electing their presidents.
Recently, the Malaysian Amateur Athletic Union (MAAU) in their Annual General Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, elected a new president in Perlis Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim.
Certainly, Shahidan is a good man for the post, but the question is whether he will have the time to be hands on the administration and progress of the association.
Afterall, Shahidan, already heads the Amateur Swimming Association of Malaysia (ASUM), the Perlis Football Association and Malaysian Kabbadi Association.
There was a move sometime ago to limit the number of top posts an individual can hold in sports association to ensure that the same official does not spread himself thin in serving the various associations one heads.
But nothing concrete came off it.
It is great that Shahidan is a popular choice and it must be because he delivers, especially in terms of finding funds for the association.
But will there not be a conflict of interest in his daily chores, will he not be going to the same source to assist the associations he heads and have his plate full to handle to the various woes of the association.
Or is it that the affiliates in MAAU have put him as the president, so that others can run the association, as he might not have the time to be hands on most of the time.
Interestingly, a man who is dedicated to working hard at his job, Admiral (Rtd) Datuk Danyal Balagopal, who has a record of being a driving force trying to put MAAU on the right footing, had stood against Shahidan and lost.
In the process, Danyal, who was the deputy president, had to relinquish the post as he went for brokes.
The chances that Danyal being persuaded to return to his deputy president post looks remote as the “king makers” within would not want that.
Shahidan will definitely find the money for MAAU’s activities, but whether he is going to see it put to good use will be the million ringgit question.
Rumours have already started among the sports circle that Shahidan might even run for a post in the FA of Malaysia and even the Olympic Council of Malaysia.
As for a post in OCM, he probably has already paved his way with the support of the two associations he heads – MAAU and ASUM.
As for FA of Malaysia, it is left to be seen.
It is good that top leaders come forward to assist State and National Sports Associations, but they must be careful not to spread themselves thin and at the same time subject themselves to talk from the public that they are “power crazy”.
They also must be careful not too be accused of not doing enough for sports in their own State, but take on to become national presidents.
It certainly does not do justice to these leaders on being just “puppet presidents”.
Maybe, Shahidan, is a different and he can handle a few associations in his stable and bring forth the desired results in each. He will then become a rare breed of sports leaders.
But in the best interest of sports in the country, it is best that sports leaders do not take on more than they can chew.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Winds of change (2006 - Malaysian Today)
Winds of change
THERE are winds of change in the offing in the preparation for elite athletes for future Games and championships in move to see athletes better prepared.
There is also indication that National Sports Associations (NSAs) will have to play a more prominent role in development and no longer can just leave at the hands of the National Sports Council to do their job as guardians of the respective sports.
The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) is also expected to work even closer with NSC and at the same time work closely with NSAs to help them in development of the respective sports.
The NSC are expected to concentrate more on just elite athlete preparation so that the best effort is put in without any other distractions like development work and talent identification.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports, could well be emphasising further on sports for all and instilling a better sports culture among the raykat.
These are some changes could well happen with the Minister of Youth and Sports, Datuk Azalina Othman Said, having given indications of such a move in Sports Talk on Trax FM (a radio show) on Sunday and her visit to the OCM on Tuesday evening where she met Board Members headed by president Tan Sri Tunku Imran.
Azalina has also lined up visits to the associations of the Eight Core Sports (athletics, badminton, bowling, gymnastics, football, hockey, swimming and squash) to visit their administrative office and also to have informal discussions with their respective senior officials.
She is expected to throw innovative ideas for the betterment of sports in the country and see the responses and commitment from the NSAs.
Basically, just like she was picking the brains of the OCM offcials, she is expected to do the same of the Eight Core NSA officials.
She even had a similar meeting with Sports Editors of the Print and Electronic Media at a luncheon this afternoon, to get the Media’s feedback.
Once she has equipped herself with all the thoughts from all quarters, she is expected to discuss it at the Cabinet Committee meeting at the end of the month, before coming out with a structure which could see Malaysian sports elevate itself to higher grounds.
However, these plans when unfolded, is not expected to be a short term plan or any magical plan which is launched today and champions born yesterday.
It is going to be process, where the concerted and cooperation
THERE are winds of change in the offing in the preparation for elite athletes for future Games and championships in move to see athletes better prepared.
There is also indication that National Sports Associations (NSAs) will have to play a more prominent role in development and no longer can just leave at the hands of the National Sports Council to do their job as guardians of the respective sports.
The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) is also expected to work even closer with NSC and at the same time work closely with NSAs to help them in development of the respective sports.
The NSC are expected to concentrate more on just elite athlete preparation so that the best effort is put in without any other distractions like development work and talent identification.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports, could well be emphasising further on sports for all and instilling a better sports culture among the raykat.
These are some changes could well happen with the Minister of Youth and Sports, Datuk Azalina Othman Said, having given indications of such a move in Sports Talk on Trax FM (a radio show) on Sunday and her visit to the OCM on Tuesday evening where she met Board Members headed by president Tan Sri Tunku Imran.
Azalina has also lined up visits to the associations of the Eight Core Sports (athletics, badminton, bowling, gymnastics, football, hockey, swimming and squash) to visit their administrative office and also to have informal discussions with their respective senior officials.
She is expected to throw innovative ideas for the betterment of sports in the country and see the responses and commitment from the NSAs.
Basically, just like she was picking the brains of the OCM offcials, she is expected to do the same of the Eight Core NSA officials.
She even had a similar meeting with Sports Editors of the Print and Electronic Media at a luncheon this afternoon, to get the Media’s feedback.
Once she has equipped herself with all the thoughts from all quarters, she is expected to discuss it at the Cabinet Committee meeting at the end of the month, before coming out with a structure which could see Malaysian sports elevate itself to higher grounds.
However, these plans when unfolded, is not expected to be a short term plan or any magical plan which is launched today and champions born yesterday.
It is going to be process, where the concerted and cooperation
Friday, January 12, 2007
Embrace Sports Medicine (2007 - Malaysian Today)
Embrace Sports Medicine
IT is about time Malaysian sports loving fraternity once and for all accept that sports medicine and sports science are part and parcel of modern days sports, especially at excellence level.
On too many occasions of late, questions have been asked about the importance and relevance of support service for teams. In some instances, the support services have even been blamed for poor performance of teams.
It is indeed sad that sports medicine and science have been ridiculed in this modern age of sports and especially by those who have little or no knowledge in the area.
More and more sports and coaches are accepting that sports medicine and especially sport science plays an important role in the overall performance of an athlete or team.
But there are still some sports and coaches who shun sports science, feeling threatened by it, especially when they have little knowledge on the matter.
It is a globally trend these days for athletes and sports alike to have support service to enhance their performances.
Soccer teams for the recent World Cup in Germany had as many support services staff with them, as they had players on their squad.
Support services are more often misconstrued as people who disrupt the plans of teams. On contrary, these support service team play a huge role in the rise in the overall performance of athletes and teams.
And now for the coming Doha Asian Games in December, where a total of 31 support services have been accredited to travel with the contingent to Doha, there is bound to be some adverse criticisms enlisted.
There a total of three doctors, four physiotherapist, six masseurs, five psychologists, three nutritionists, two sports code personnel and eight conditioning staff going to Doha as against …….. athletes and officials.
Under sports medicine are personnel who are involved in clinical services, physiotherapy, paramedical services, anti-doping, rehabilitation, radiology, pharmacy and biochemistry.
And under sports science come physiology, biomechanics, psychology, nutrition, conditioning and sports code.
The sports science personnel do specific works which help the coach to bring the best out of athlete, especially in working on weaker areas of an athlete.
But for the support service to be effective, the coach and athlete must believe in them.
The growing trend in Malaysian sports is that more and more coaches and athletes believe that the support service, do them good.
The works of the various support service in indeed intricate and involves a great deal of work on specific information on the athlete. Among them include counseling, to plan, develop, implement, supervise and evaluate physical conditioning programs to develop the athletes, to monitor athletes’ body composition and weight through continuous assessment, weight and management program and to provide the most appropriate physiological assessment methods that serve to continuously monitor the athlete’s fitness by identifying and quantifying the physical and physiological characteristics that contribute to performance in particular sports.
It is certainly degrading when we have for instance where there has been suggestion that Sports Code involves counting the number of times the shuttlecock crosses over the net in a game of badminton.
Yes, they keep count of rallies in a game of badminton as part of match analysis, but they certainly do more than that to provide not only vital statistics, but suggest on weak areas which need to be worked on.
In short the support service accompany the contingent not for a holiday, but an integral part of the team.
But to point fingers at the support service and say that they interrupt in the management of teams and athletes when performance in not up to the expected mark and coaches and athletes take all credit when they do well is indeed not fair to these professional personnel in the support services.
However, on the other hand, these support service are not there to take credit when performance is creditable, but merely as one and part of the team in achieving the best in an athlete or team.
The sports science team work with the entire contingent of athletes and provide a monthly report on all the athletes they work with and a look at the complied notes on individual athletes will tell one, that a great deal of work have been put in and the information and suggestion provided is indeed valuable to both athletes and coaches.
Sports Science and Medicine which is now concentrated at the National Sports Institute (NSI) in Bukit Jalil, is fast being made available to all states where mini sports science units are being set up, so that more embrace it.
As director-general of National Sports Council Dato’ Dr Ramlan Abdul Aziz, who was also the previous director of NSI puts it, “sports science is an integral part of modern days sports and the sooner all come to terms with it, the better of the development of sports in Malaysia.
“Sports science for developing countries is even more useful because it helps to compete against the giants in sports who have an abundance of talent. Sports science helps to bridge the gap between the giants and developing countries to compete on a more level playing field.”
Many fail to take the trouble to find out of the workings of sports science and more often than not make damaging statements which undermines the creditability of these support staff who work under the various divisions.
It is hoped that for the coming Doha Asian Games, these support staff of sports science are seen in a different light, acknowledgment is given to them and accept them as an integral part of modern days sports.
IT is about time Malaysian sports loving fraternity once and for all accept that sports medicine and sports science are part and parcel of modern days sports, especially at excellence level.
On too many occasions of late, questions have been asked about the importance and relevance of support service for teams. In some instances, the support services have even been blamed for poor performance of teams.
It is indeed sad that sports medicine and science have been ridiculed in this modern age of sports and especially by those who have little or no knowledge in the area.
More and more sports and coaches are accepting that sports medicine and especially sport science plays an important role in the overall performance of an athlete or team.
But there are still some sports and coaches who shun sports science, feeling threatened by it, especially when they have little knowledge on the matter.
It is a globally trend these days for athletes and sports alike to have support service to enhance their performances.
Soccer teams for the recent World Cup in Germany had as many support services staff with them, as they had players on their squad.
Support services are more often misconstrued as people who disrupt the plans of teams. On contrary, these support service team play a huge role in the rise in the overall performance of athletes and teams.
And now for the coming Doha Asian Games in December, where a total of 31 support services have been accredited to travel with the contingent to Doha, there is bound to be some adverse criticisms enlisted.
There a total of three doctors, four physiotherapist, six masseurs, five psychologists, three nutritionists, two sports code personnel and eight conditioning staff going to Doha as against …….. athletes and officials.
Under sports medicine are personnel who are involved in clinical services, physiotherapy, paramedical services, anti-doping, rehabilitation, radiology, pharmacy and biochemistry.
And under sports science come physiology, biomechanics, psychology, nutrition, conditioning and sports code.
The sports science personnel do specific works which help the coach to bring the best out of athlete, especially in working on weaker areas of an athlete.
But for the support service to be effective, the coach and athlete must believe in them.
The growing trend in Malaysian sports is that more and more coaches and athletes believe that the support service, do them good.
The works of the various support service in indeed intricate and involves a great deal of work on specific information on the athlete. Among them include counseling, to plan, develop, implement, supervise and evaluate physical conditioning programs to develop the athletes, to monitor athletes’ body composition and weight through continuous assessment, weight and management program and to provide the most appropriate physiological assessment methods that serve to continuously monitor the athlete’s fitness by identifying and quantifying the physical and physiological characteristics that contribute to performance in particular sports.
It is certainly degrading when we have for instance where there has been suggestion that Sports Code involves counting the number of times the shuttlecock crosses over the net in a game of badminton.
Yes, they keep count of rallies in a game of badminton as part of match analysis, but they certainly do more than that to provide not only vital statistics, but suggest on weak areas which need to be worked on.
In short the support service accompany the contingent not for a holiday, but an integral part of the team.
But to point fingers at the support service and say that they interrupt in the management of teams and athletes when performance in not up to the expected mark and coaches and athletes take all credit when they do well is indeed not fair to these professional personnel in the support services.
However, on the other hand, these support service are not there to take credit when performance is creditable, but merely as one and part of the team in achieving the best in an athlete or team.
The sports science team work with the entire contingent of athletes and provide a monthly report on all the athletes they work with and a look at the complied notes on individual athletes will tell one, that a great deal of work have been put in and the information and suggestion provided is indeed valuable to both athletes and coaches.
Sports Science and Medicine which is now concentrated at the National Sports Institute (NSI) in Bukit Jalil, is fast being made available to all states where mini sports science units are being set up, so that more embrace it.
As director-general of National Sports Council Dato’ Dr Ramlan Abdul Aziz, who was also the previous director of NSI puts it, “sports science is an integral part of modern days sports and the sooner all come to terms with it, the better of the development of sports in Malaysia.
“Sports science for developing countries is even more useful because it helps to compete against the giants in sports who have an abundance of talent. Sports science helps to bridge the gap between the giants and developing countries to compete on a more level playing field.”
Many fail to take the trouble to find out of the workings of sports science and more often than not make damaging statements which undermines the creditability of these support staff who work under the various divisions.
It is hoped that for the coming Doha Asian Games, these support staff of sports science are seen in a different light, acknowledgment is given to them and accept them as an integral part of modern days sports.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Doha debate (December 2006 - Malaysian Today)
Doha debate
THE debate on whether the Malaysian contingent to the 15th Doha Asian Games which ended last week, had passed or failed in their mission is still ongoing.
While general consensus is that the contingent have done better than all previous Games and thus have done well, there are still some media apprehension is that Malaysia fell one short of a gold medal from the performance prospect analysis (PPA) given by the National Sports Council, thus it was a failure.
There are some critics who say that NSC had under-targeted, although the media themselves have not come out in the open to say what was a reasonable target was and state their stand of how many gold medals was expected of the contingent.
Agreed, that the contingent fell one short of the targeted nine gold medals, and that some gold medals won, were not mentioned in the PPA.
But it must be underlined that PPA is a projection based on current performance of athletes, their personal bests, national records and that against the performance of the competitors.
It was not a figure picked out of a bag or by a wave of a magic wand.
But that again, the PPA was in no way the guaranteed medal haul expected, because in sports there is no guarantees.
There are other elements on the day of the event that might throw all projections out of the window, for instance the emergence of a competitor which has not been known to the general public, injuries, mishaps, tactical disasters and to a certain extend even the element of luck.
And it is only common in sports that when one projection fails to win a gold medal, another athlete might just step up make up for the loss.
The PPA is a projection and not the ultimate results expected because it never works that way in sports.
Malaysia’s final medal haul of eight gold, 17 silver and 17 bronze for a total of 42 medals is the best ever achieved by a Malaysian contingent since Malaysia competed in Manila in 1954. (The first Games was held in New Delhi in 1951, where Malaya then, did not compete).
There is a need to look at the bigger picture rather than be narrowed minded and harp on the eight gold medal failure.
Without doubt, the Malaysian contingent could have done better. There is no denying in that. Infact, if everything had gone well, Malaysia could have even returned with twelve to thirteen gold medals.
But nevertheless, the achievement by contingent, still needs to be acknowledged and we have to move on to plan for the future using this performance as a base.
Yes, there were failures in Doha and namely sports like soccer, hockey, shooting, boxing, road cycling, and to a certain extend karate (do not forget that although they won no gold medals, they were in four finals), sailing (despite winning a gold medal, while favourite Dr Kevin Lim did not deliver).
Rest assured the NSC will be taking the necessary measures to put these sports in their places.
The Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Azalina Othman Said, has come out strongly to say that a ranking system for all sports is expected to be introduced, where fundings will depend on their current ranking status.
She has also indicated that sports who have been receiving funding for sometime now, but have not produced any outstanding results, may see them receive very much less funding and probably if there is any funding is given out, it will be to the development of the sports.
National Sports Associations (NSAs) too have to be held accountable for any failures, for just because NSC is involved in preparing and in some cases even developing their athletes, all blames should just be heaved to them. It is a partnership between NSC and NSAs and it is only fair that it moments of glory or despair, it should be shared equally.
At the rate things are going there is even a possibility that NSC might just hand out the funds for development (subject to scrutiny and approval) to the NSAs and allow them to do the development work solely but with Key Performance Index (KPI) to fulfil.
This will give NSC the time and manpower to solely concentrate on elite athletes.
Coming back to the Doha Asian Games, in the bigger picture surely the best ever gold, silver and total medal haul must surely mean something.
Only the silver medal haul taken into account will place Malaysia sixth in the tally, while only the 17 bronze medals will see us placed ninth and on a total medal haul of 42, Malaysia will also be placed ninth out of the 45 countries who participated.
The gold medal haul has now been spread over five sports (squash, bowling, wushu, badminton and sailing), instead of four at the last Games
Critics will still say that only badminton is among the Olympics sports (optimist is not among the events in Olympics sailing).
While it is fine to compare medal hauls from Olympics sports at the Asian Games, let us not forget that we are now reviewing the Asian Games and the medals won here were contested in Doha.
Besides, all efforts are being made to see other sports like athletics, shooting, archery, and gymnastics to move into the Olympics categories and it certainly cannot be achieved overnight.
The last Olympics just ended two years ago in Athens and to expect Olympic standard athletes to have been found in two years is like hoping for a miracle.
Malaysia’s overall standing from the last Games in Busan where we have move one rung up from 12th to 11th in Doha, must also be noted.
Among the South East Asian countries, we are second to Thailand, whereas kingpins in SEA Games like Indonesia, Philippines and even Vietnam are all below us. And the population of these countries certainly far exceeds Malaysia’s 25 million.
There were also several young athletes who emerged in Doha for example the badminton doubles gold winning pair Khoo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong, Ruffina Tan in sailing, Daniel Bego and Siow Yi Ting in swimming, Josiah Ng in cycling and Esther Tan in bowling who paint a bright future for Malaysian sports in the future.
The overall picture certainly paints a reasonably good outing for Malaysia and we should look on the positive aspects and use them as a foundation to better things.
If just the short of one gold medal is used as yardstick between success and failure, then does that mean that Korea who won 96 gold medal in Busan and finished fourth but who went to win only 58 in Doha and finished third overall, while countries like Thailand who targeted 15 gold medal but attained 13, Chinese Taipei who had 15 listed as their target but only achieved nine, are all failures.
Targets are meant to be targets and certainly not the magical figure which is certain to be achieved and an allowance must always be given for errors.
But at the end of the day, the Malaysian contingent (at least the majority of them) can walk with their heads high for the various achievements.
Let us not put a good thing down and be cynical about everything, but instead look at the bigger picture and move forward. Lets take one step at a time before we expect the giant leap!
G S B Total No. of Sports No. of Sports
(Gold Medals) (Total Medals)
Bangkok 1966 7 5 6 18 2 3
Busan 2002 6 8 16 30 4 14
Doha 2006 8 17 17 42 5 14
SEA Countries:
Thailand 13 15 26 54 9 17
MALAYSIA 8 17 17 42 5 14
Singapore 8 7 12 27 4 9
Philippines 4 6 9 19 3 7
Vietnam 3 13 7 23 2 9
Indonesia 2 3 15 20 2 11
Myanmar 0 4 7 11 0 5
Laos 0 1 0 1 0 1
THE debate on whether the Malaysian contingent to the 15th Doha Asian Games which ended last week, had passed or failed in their mission is still ongoing.
While general consensus is that the contingent have done better than all previous Games and thus have done well, there are still some media apprehension is that Malaysia fell one short of a gold medal from the performance prospect analysis (PPA) given by the National Sports Council, thus it was a failure.
There are some critics who say that NSC had under-targeted, although the media themselves have not come out in the open to say what was a reasonable target was and state their stand of how many gold medals was expected of the contingent.
Agreed, that the contingent fell one short of the targeted nine gold medals, and that some gold medals won, were not mentioned in the PPA.
But it must be underlined that PPA is a projection based on current performance of athletes, their personal bests, national records and that against the performance of the competitors.
It was not a figure picked out of a bag or by a wave of a magic wand.
But that again, the PPA was in no way the guaranteed medal haul expected, because in sports there is no guarantees.
There are other elements on the day of the event that might throw all projections out of the window, for instance the emergence of a competitor which has not been known to the general public, injuries, mishaps, tactical disasters and to a certain extend even the element of luck.
And it is only common in sports that when one projection fails to win a gold medal, another athlete might just step up make up for the loss.
The PPA is a projection and not the ultimate results expected because it never works that way in sports.
Malaysia’s final medal haul of eight gold, 17 silver and 17 bronze for a total of 42 medals is the best ever achieved by a Malaysian contingent since Malaysia competed in Manila in 1954. (The first Games was held in New Delhi in 1951, where Malaya then, did not compete).
There is a need to look at the bigger picture rather than be narrowed minded and harp on the eight gold medal failure.
Without doubt, the Malaysian contingent could have done better. There is no denying in that. Infact, if everything had gone well, Malaysia could have even returned with twelve to thirteen gold medals.
But nevertheless, the achievement by contingent, still needs to be acknowledged and we have to move on to plan for the future using this performance as a base.
Yes, there were failures in Doha and namely sports like soccer, hockey, shooting, boxing, road cycling, and to a certain extend karate (do not forget that although they won no gold medals, they were in four finals), sailing (despite winning a gold medal, while favourite Dr Kevin Lim did not deliver).
Rest assured the NSC will be taking the necessary measures to put these sports in their places.
The Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Azalina Othman Said, has come out strongly to say that a ranking system for all sports is expected to be introduced, where fundings will depend on their current ranking status.
She has also indicated that sports who have been receiving funding for sometime now, but have not produced any outstanding results, may see them receive very much less funding and probably if there is any funding is given out, it will be to the development of the sports.
National Sports Associations (NSAs) too have to be held accountable for any failures, for just because NSC is involved in preparing and in some cases even developing their athletes, all blames should just be heaved to them. It is a partnership between NSC and NSAs and it is only fair that it moments of glory or despair, it should be shared equally.
At the rate things are going there is even a possibility that NSC might just hand out the funds for development (subject to scrutiny and approval) to the NSAs and allow them to do the development work solely but with Key Performance Index (KPI) to fulfil.
This will give NSC the time and manpower to solely concentrate on elite athletes.
Coming back to the Doha Asian Games, in the bigger picture surely the best ever gold, silver and total medal haul must surely mean something.
Only the silver medal haul taken into account will place Malaysia sixth in the tally, while only the 17 bronze medals will see us placed ninth and on a total medal haul of 42, Malaysia will also be placed ninth out of the 45 countries who participated.
The gold medal haul has now been spread over five sports (squash, bowling, wushu, badminton and sailing), instead of four at the last Games
Critics will still say that only badminton is among the Olympics sports (optimist is not among the events in Olympics sailing).
While it is fine to compare medal hauls from Olympics sports at the Asian Games, let us not forget that we are now reviewing the Asian Games and the medals won here were contested in Doha.
Besides, all efforts are being made to see other sports like athletics, shooting, archery, and gymnastics to move into the Olympics categories and it certainly cannot be achieved overnight.
The last Olympics just ended two years ago in Athens and to expect Olympic standard athletes to have been found in two years is like hoping for a miracle.
Malaysia’s overall standing from the last Games in Busan where we have move one rung up from 12th to 11th in Doha, must also be noted.
Among the South East Asian countries, we are second to Thailand, whereas kingpins in SEA Games like Indonesia, Philippines and even Vietnam are all below us. And the population of these countries certainly far exceeds Malaysia’s 25 million.
There were also several young athletes who emerged in Doha for example the badminton doubles gold winning pair Khoo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong, Ruffina Tan in sailing, Daniel Bego and Siow Yi Ting in swimming, Josiah Ng in cycling and Esther Tan in bowling who paint a bright future for Malaysian sports in the future.
The overall picture certainly paints a reasonably good outing for Malaysia and we should look on the positive aspects and use them as a foundation to better things.
If just the short of one gold medal is used as yardstick between success and failure, then does that mean that Korea who won 96 gold medal in Busan and finished fourth but who went to win only 58 in Doha and finished third overall, while countries like Thailand who targeted 15 gold medal but attained 13, Chinese Taipei who had 15 listed as their target but only achieved nine, are all failures.
Targets are meant to be targets and certainly not the magical figure which is certain to be achieved and an allowance must always be given for errors.
But at the end of the day, the Malaysian contingent (at least the majority of them) can walk with their heads high for the various achievements.
Let us not put a good thing down and be cynical about everything, but instead look at the bigger picture and move forward. Lets take one step at a time before we expect the giant leap!
G S B Total No. of Sports No. of Sports
(Gold Medals) (Total Medals)
Bangkok 1966 7 5 6 18 2 3
Busan 2002 6 8 16 30 4 14
Doha 2006 8 17 17 42 5 14
SEA Countries:
Thailand 13 15 26 54 9 17
MALAYSIA 8 17 17 42 5 14
Singapore 8 7 12 27 4 9
Philippines 4 6 9 19 3 7
Vietnam 3 13 7 23 2 9
Indonesia 2 3 15 20 2 11
Myanmar 0 4 7 11 0 5
Laos 0 1 0 1 0 1
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Looking ahead
AS we usher in another New Year in two days time, sports enthusiasts of the country will look back to see what has been achieved and what the New Year has in store.
A stock check is indeed in order, with 2007 being the nation’s 50th year of independence.
While many efforts are going to be made to reminisce the “good old days of sports in the nation” and to record all the golden moments to celebrate the occasions, it is even more important that the years ahead of us see better moments to be remembered.
After all, that’s what progression all about – to get better with times.
Of course, critics will say that sports over the last two decades have taken a downward trend because of many factors – both internal within in the sports fraternity and external where changing times of the modern society has seen parents and children give less importance to sports.
And there is certainly truth in the views of the critics because it is a fact of the matter.
However, if the critics continue to critisise, without giving constructive solutions, it is not going to help sports one bit.
That is why it is sad to see efforts by parties like the National Sports Associations (NSAs), Olympic Council of Malaysia and the Youth and Sports Ministry through the National Sports Council (NSC) to raise the standards of sports in the country, getting knocked down and being impatient to see the end results.
Nothing in life happens overnight and it is no different in sports. Everything needs effort, planning, execution and continuous effort, planning and execution.
For the New Year, the Cabinet Committee for Sports headed by the Deputy Prime Minister himself, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak. Are expected to meet in January and top of the discussion will be the Doha Asian Games for it was suppose to be yardstick for review and further stand of Government funding.
While there are different schools of thoughts on the Malaysian contingent’s performance in
Of course, some sports were a down, while others stepped up to deliver.
Maybe the time has come for Malaysian sports not to spread itself thin and wide in their search for success in sports.
It should concentrate on a few sports that have shown potential and delivered in the patch. A few more sports where there is potential to do well at the world class field because physique does not into the picture like archery and shooting to name two, should be given support, but at development level so that the sports can be developed for the future.
Generally, the mandate should be given to work on sports which have been managed well as professionals, have a sound development programmes, have the manpower resources to carry out the programmes effectively, and have a track record of performance like badminton, squash and bowling.
Another group of sports, who are beginning to shown signs of positiveness like athletics, must be assisted by on a selective basis.
Others like hockey and soccer will have to give more emphasis on development.
In any programmes there will be success and failures, but for a continued process, there has to be movement forward using the positive aspects of each programme as a stepping stone.
From the Jaya Program in 1998, all following programs have been continuous programmes for specific events. In addition, along the process, we will have athletes who fall out, while others emerge as newcomers and go on to establish themselves, while we will have the “old faithfuls” who will continue to perform to stay in the program.
Malaysian sports next two events are the
Cuts are expected to make the programs trim and lean, but all indications are that sports will continue to get the support it has been getting all this while.
But to make it all worthwhile, there has been a concerted joint effort from the NSAs, OCM and NSC.
There needs to be professionalism on everyone’s part – be it athletes, officials, coaches or even administrators.
There certainly has to be accountability and running to hide when trouble hits the fence or even worse shifting the blame to others will not do.
There also needs to be transparency from all quarters to ensure that everything is above board and that all programs are run effectively and well.
Let us make this 50 years independence a meaningfully one, by having to show some real progress in sports and not just imaginary ones or yesteryears glories we have to fall back to give a pat on our backs.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Doha experience (December 2006 - Malaysian Today)
Doha experience
THE 15th Asian Games comes to an end today in Doha and while countries return either elated, contended or disappointed with their performance in the Games, the host themselves will be judged.
It is without doubt that the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee (DAGOC) have gone out of their way to make this Games successful mainly through the money splashed to a tune of about three billion US dollars.
So much so that all the important aspects of organising the Games has left in the experienced hands of organising personnel from the Sydney and Athens Olympics.
Qatar with the population of 700,000 of which only about 300,000 are Qataris, certainly had manpower woes and their approach to get hired hands was understandable.
However, European invasion of the Games in Doha, saw the Games lose the Asian spirit of friendliness, warmth and hospitality.
Many, be it athletes, officials, media or even foreign visitors to the Games have left or will leave Doha, disappointed with the way they have been treated.
I have covered the Hiroshima Asian Games in 1994 and Bangkok Asian Games 1998 and still cherish the memories of being treated as a guest with their warmth, friendliness and charm.
But here in Doha, all we got was arrogance and being treated like criminals.
Even the locals who were involved in the Games did not make it pleasant because of the natural rough nature they talk.
Malaysian officials, athletes and media personnel had complains from day 1 to the day they left of being treated badly.
To make it worse, the Greeks and Australians who were hired to run the Games even more high handed in their approach that it made many wonder if it was the Asian Games or the European Games!
It was the Games for Asians and we were made to feel like aliens at own Games.
The only hospitality shown during the Games was the volunteers and hospitality staff at the Protocol Lounges who comprised mainly of Asians.
And to make matters worse, these volunteers and hospitality staff were treated badly by the Europeans who were their heads or supervisors.
There were instances when Malaysian athletes and officials were prevented from joining the victory ceremonies, not allowed to walk out exit gates because it was only meant for accredited cars and asked to walk hundreds of meters around for the pedestrians exit, accreditation cards literally snatched by security cards to check and there were 101 don’ts.
Chief technical delegates who were running the respective sports, including Malaysians, were not even allowed to the arena to conduct their daily business.
Many of the security guards were following instructions like robots and did not use their discretion or common-sense when the situation warranted. Many did not have a clue of what the various abbreviations and numbers used on the tags for access.
To make it worse, their superiors be it Qataris or the Europeans, only made the situation worse by being impossible.
It is hoped such a situation does not happen again in the Asian Games. The Olympic Council of Asia have to seriously think about the capability of local population participation in managing the Games before awarding it.
The last thing we need is for the Asian Games to be run by Europeans and take the very essence of the Games to be truly Asian.
Already we have Germans, Americans, Kenyans, Ethiopians, Senegalese, English and France in the name of naturalization competing for countries in the Asian Games. Soon the Asian Games will no longer look Asian.
Yes we can get foreign expertise for instance the shows for the opening and closing shows, but even then, surely there are able Asians who can do and equally good job if not better.
Let us not sale our Games to the foreigners. Let us be proud of out Games and any milestones made, should belong to the Asians. The colonial days are long over and we certainly do not need to be treated as slaves and outcast in our very own Games.
Besides, the bitter experience here in Doha which as made a nightmare Games rather than an enjoyable and memorable one, the Malaysians will at least return that despite the adversities they managed to stay focus and deliver.
Malaysia will returned with eight gold medals, which bettered the previous Games in Busan’s achievement of six gold and or even surpass the best ever achievement in the Games history of seven gold at the Bangkok Games in 1966.
The total number of medals haul is also the best ever surpassing 30 achieved in Busan, while the silver medal haul to surpasses the best of 13 in Hiroshima.
The gold medal tally certainly could have been higher if not for upsets like in the bodybuilding, karate and the many silvers which were close seconds in the respective sports.
It could have been a better outing, but one which is satisfactory. However, there is plenty of work to be done to move on from where we have reached and a more dedicated effort from the national sports associations is required.
The Government has been funding generously and are expected to continue to do so with the achievements in Doha, but there are some sports who might be put on the mat and they have only to blame themselves.
The onus is now on themselves to rise and fight they way back for recognition for funding from the Government.
And National Sports Council INSC) is also expected to be tougher on national associations seeking funding, as they are expected only to deal and fund those who are managed well with sound development programmes and have proven results.
The time is long overdue for NSC to be cruel to be kind.
THE 15th Asian Games comes to an end today in Doha and while countries return either elated, contended or disappointed with their performance in the Games, the host themselves will be judged.
It is without doubt that the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee (DAGOC) have gone out of their way to make this Games successful mainly through the money splashed to a tune of about three billion US dollars.
So much so that all the important aspects of organising the Games has left in the experienced hands of organising personnel from the Sydney and Athens Olympics.
Qatar with the population of 700,000 of which only about 300,000 are Qataris, certainly had manpower woes and their approach to get hired hands was understandable.
However, European invasion of the Games in Doha, saw the Games lose the Asian spirit of friendliness, warmth and hospitality.
Many, be it athletes, officials, media or even foreign visitors to the Games have left or will leave Doha, disappointed with the way they have been treated.
I have covered the Hiroshima Asian Games in 1994 and Bangkok Asian Games 1998 and still cherish the memories of being treated as a guest with their warmth, friendliness and charm.
But here in Doha, all we got was arrogance and being treated like criminals.
Even the locals who were involved in the Games did not make it pleasant because of the natural rough nature they talk.
Malaysian officials, athletes and media personnel had complains from day 1 to the day they left of being treated badly.
To make it worse, the Greeks and Australians who were hired to run the Games even more high handed in their approach that it made many wonder if it was the Asian Games or the European Games!
It was the Games for Asians and we were made to feel like aliens at own Games.
The only hospitality shown during the Games was the volunteers and hospitality staff at the Protocol Lounges who comprised mainly of Asians.
And to make matters worse, these volunteers and hospitality staff were treated badly by the Europeans who were their heads or supervisors.
There were instances when Malaysian athletes and officials were prevented from joining the victory ceremonies, not allowed to walk out exit gates because it was only meant for accredited cars and asked to walk hundreds of meters around for the pedestrians exit, accreditation cards literally snatched by security cards to check and there were 101 don’ts.
Chief technical delegates who were running the respective sports, including Malaysians, were not even allowed to the arena to conduct their daily business.
Many of the security guards were following instructions like robots and did not use their discretion or common-sense when the situation warranted. Many did not have a clue of what the various abbreviations and numbers used on the tags for access.
To make it worse, their superiors be it Qataris or the Europeans, only made the situation worse by being impossible.
It is hoped such a situation does not happen again in the Asian Games. The Olympic Council of Asia have to seriously think about the capability of local population participation in managing the Games before awarding it.
The last thing we need is for the Asian Games to be run by Europeans and take the very essence of the Games to be truly Asian.
Already we have Germans, Americans, Kenyans, Ethiopians, Senegalese, English and France in the name of naturalization competing for countries in the Asian Games. Soon the Asian Games will no longer look Asian.
Yes we can get foreign expertise for instance the shows for the opening and closing shows, but even then, surely there are able Asians who can do and equally good job if not better.
Let us not sale our Games to the foreigners. Let us be proud of out Games and any milestones made, should belong to the Asians. The colonial days are long over and we certainly do not need to be treated as slaves and outcast in our very own Games.
Besides, the bitter experience here in Doha which as made a nightmare Games rather than an enjoyable and memorable one, the Malaysians will at least return that despite the adversities they managed to stay focus and deliver.
Malaysia will returned with eight gold medals, which bettered the previous Games in Busan’s achievement of six gold and or even surpass the best ever achievement in the Games history of seven gold at the Bangkok Games in 1966.
The total number of medals haul is also the best ever surpassing 30 achieved in Busan, while the silver medal haul to surpasses the best of 13 in Hiroshima.
The gold medal tally certainly could have been higher if not for upsets like in the bodybuilding, karate and the many silvers which were close seconds in the respective sports.
It could have been a better outing, but one which is satisfactory. However, there is plenty of work to be done to move on from where we have reached and a more dedicated effort from the national sports associations is required.
The Government has been funding generously and are expected to continue to do so with the achievements in Doha, but there are some sports who might be put on the mat and they have only to blame themselves.
The onus is now on themselves to rise and fight they way back for recognition for funding from the Government.
And National Sports Council INSC) is also expected to be tougher on national associations seeking funding, as they are expected only to deal and fund those who are managed well with sound development programmes and have proven results.
The time is long overdue for NSC to be cruel to be kind.
Saturday, December 9, 2006
Target question (2006 - Malaysian Today)
Target question
THE 15th Asian Games in Doha is well underway and after seven days of competition Malaysia have won two gold , three silver and two bronze medals.
The million ringgit question on everyone’s lips is whether Malaysia is going to surpass their previous Games in Busan’s achievement of six gold or even better to surpass the best ever achievement in the Games history of seven gold at the Bangkok Games in 1966.
But with the National Sports Council (NSC) having come with a “Performance Prospect Assessment” for a haul of nine gold medal, expectations is running even higher.
Many have questioned what on what is this new coined term, Performance Prospect Assessment.
It is certainly no crystal ball gazing or picking up a number from the hat to say that that is the number of gold medals expected to be won.
The figure NSC gave came about assessing athletes current performance, condition as apposed to performances of their opponents currently. A lot of work has been put in by head of Doha Asian Games preparations head, Damien Kelly.
Critics still say that the nine gold medal hopes is still a modest figure.
So what is the magical number then? With not even the media having not come up with the magical gold haul number in Doha, as far as NSC is concerned, it will be looking at the nine gold medal haul.
With bowling already having delivered their 100 percent expectations of two gold medals, although the two won was not in events that they listed down for – men and women team events – but in the women’s singles (Esther Cheah) and men’s trios (Alex Liew, Daniel Lim and Ben Heng), there could be more from them.
Except for the badminton team who has failed to reach the final when they went down to Korea in the semifinals, other projections given by NSC seem to be on target.
But of course silver medals from equestrian, swimming which were not among the medals in NSC’s list is a welcome sign.
But at the sametime, sports which were not in the performance prospect assessment chart, did not mean that they were no hopers. It was just that it was felt that it was more difficult to win medals in these events. As in the case of equestrian no medals were set for them by NSC, as the latter as not involved in the preparation of their athletes.
In anycase, NSC had clearly indicated that every sports which travels to Doha should be aiming for a medal and not just making numbers.
While despite bowling’s deliverance of gold medals, there is an apprehension that Malaysia will not do well.
There is a strong possibility that Malaysia’s gold rush will come next week when the Games will see most sports move to the final stages.
Many sports currently are still in the early stages of their competition while others like karate, athletics wushu and diving yet to start.
The Deputy Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Liow Tong Lai who was here to visit the athletes and Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Azalina Othman Said, who is here currently, have both expressed confidence that the athletes will deliver, despite hiccups from sports like badminton.
However, one thing is clear here in Doha, most of the giants at the Games like China, Japan, South Korea and even South East Asian kingpins, Thailand, have all come here with extensive preparation and huge amounts of money pumped to their sports.
Yes, Malaysia too have pumped in money to sports, but it is really compared peanuts when compared to these giants.
Sure, Malaysia’s size of population too is no comparison to these giant nations, but the fact remains that the sports play a vital part in their society and is treated seriously by all including the athletes because it is an opportunity for better living for them.
But for Malaysians who are more often than not in the comfort zone well before they can produce any respectable results, they always feel that there will be another day for them. Malaysia also lacks a good base of athletes in the various sports.
However for the Doha Asian Games, the expected medals should be delivered.
The athletes and coaches realise how important it is for them to perform here and deliver because it has been made clear to all of them of the importance of the Doha Asian if funding from the Government is to continue and increase.
And indications from athletes in Doha is that they will deliver.
Bowling could well be a shining example for other associations as they continue to perform and could well surpass their target by even 100 percent.
A bulk of the gold medal is expected to come this weekend onwards in sports like bodybuilding, karate, squash and wushu.
And it will be little surprise if our athletes even hit the big 10 or even more this time around.
There are bound to be some surprises, like badminton, but it will definitely not be for want for trying.
The performance here in Doha could well be a boost for the future of Malaysian sports.
However, there is a lot more that the athletes themselves have to do if they are to compete at the highest level and perform because competition is only getting tougher at both the world and Asian level.
Malaysia certainly needs a bigger pool of athletes and elite athletes having to excel at the highest level possible.
There is no more room for part-time or athletes who are not serious about sports but just marking their time.
The Government too has to make some bold decisions to send the message clearly to the athletes to emerge as world beaters, consistently and probably in a few selected sports.
It is sincerely hoped that in the next column there will be accolades for the athletes rather than brickbats because this is a do-or-die mission for Malaysian sports.
THE 15th Asian Games in Doha is well underway and after seven days of competition Malaysia have won two gold , three silver and two bronze medals.
The million ringgit question on everyone’s lips is whether Malaysia is going to surpass their previous Games in Busan’s achievement of six gold or even better to surpass the best ever achievement in the Games history of seven gold at the Bangkok Games in 1966.
But with the National Sports Council (NSC) having come with a “Performance Prospect Assessment” for a haul of nine gold medal, expectations is running even higher.
Many have questioned what on what is this new coined term, Performance Prospect Assessment.
It is certainly no crystal ball gazing or picking up a number from the hat to say that that is the number of gold medals expected to be won.
The figure NSC gave came about assessing athletes current performance, condition as apposed to performances of their opponents currently. A lot of work has been put in by head of Doha Asian Games preparations head, Damien Kelly.
Critics still say that the nine gold medal hopes is still a modest figure.
So what is the magical number then? With not even the media having not come up with the magical gold haul number in Doha, as far as NSC is concerned, it will be looking at the nine gold medal haul.
With bowling already having delivered their 100 percent expectations of two gold medals, although the two won was not in events that they listed down for – men and women team events – but in the women’s singles (Esther Cheah) and men’s trios (Alex Liew, Daniel Lim and Ben Heng), there could be more from them.
Except for the badminton team who has failed to reach the final when they went down to Korea in the semifinals, other projections given by NSC seem to be on target.
But of course silver medals from equestrian, swimming which were not among the medals in NSC’s list is a welcome sign.
But at the sametime, sports which were not in the performance prospect assessment chart, did not mean that they were no hopers. It was just that it was felt that it was more difficult to win medals in these events. As in the case of equestrian no medals were set for them by NSC, as the latter as not involved in the preparation of their athletes.
In anycase, NSC had clearly indicated that every sports which travels to Doha should be aiming for a medal and not just making numbers.
While despite bowling’s deliverance of gold medals, there is an apprehension that Malaysia will not do well.
There is a strong possibility that Malaysia’s gold rush will come next week when the Games will see most sports move to the final stages.
Many sports currently are still in the early stages of their competition while others like karate, athletics wushu and diving yet to start.
The Deputy Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Liow Tong Lai who was here to visit the athletes and Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Azalina Othman Said, who is here currently, have both expressed confidence that the athletes will deliver, despite hiccups from sports like badminton.
However, one thing is clear here in Doha, most of the giants at the Games like China, Japan, South Korea and even South East Asian kingpins, Thailand, have all come here with extensive preparation and huge amounts of money pumped to their sports.
Yes, Malaysia too have pumped in money to sports, but it is really compared peanuts when compared to these giants.
Sure, Malaysia’s size of population too is no comparison to these giant nations, but the fact remains that the sports play a vital part in their society and is treated seriously by all including the athletes because it is an opportunity for better living for them.
But for Malaysians who are more often than not in the comfort zone well before they can produce any respectable results, they always feel that there will be another day for them. Malaysia also lacks a good base of athletes in the various sports.
However for the Doha Asian Games, the expected medals should be delivered.
The athletes and coaches realise how important it is for them to perform here and deliver because it has been made clear to all of them of the importance of the Doha Asian if funding from the Government is to continue and increase.
And indications from athletes in Doha is that they will deliver.
Bowling could well be a shining example for other associations as they continue to perform and could well surpass their target by even 100 percent.
A bulk of the gold medal is expected to come this weekend onwards in sports like bodybuilding, karate, squash and wushu.
And it will be little surprise if our athletes even hit the big 10 or even more this time around.
There are bound to be some surprises, like badminton, but it will definitely not be for want for trying.
The performance here in Doha could well be a boost for the future of Malaysian sports.
However, there is a lot more that the athletes themselves have to do if they are to compete at the highest level and perform because competition is only getting tougher at both the world and Asian level.
Malaysia certainly needs a bigger pool of athletes and elite athletes having to excel at the highest level possible.
There is no more room for part-time or athletes who are not serious about sports but just marking their time.
The Government too has to make some bold decisions to send the message clearly to the athletes to emerge as world beaters, consistently and probably in a few selected sports.
It is sincerely hoped that in the next column there will be accolades for the athletes rather than brickbats because this is a do-or-die mission for Malaysian sports.
Saturday, December 2, 2006
Nicol booster for Doha (2006 - Malaysian Today)
Nicol booster for Doha
Malaysian sports could not have received a better morale booster for the Doha Asian Games which begin today.
Nicol Ann David first proved that Malaysians can be world champions and even more underlying in feat was that it was not a flash-in-the-pan victory when she went to defend the women’s World Open squash title in Belfast earlier this week.
Make no mistake about it that it is even more difficult to defend one’s crown than to win it the first time.
The petite Nicol who hails from Penang has certainly proved that Malaysian sportsmen and women can be world beaters and do it on a consistent basis.
But Nicol’s victory was certainly not handed on a sliver platter to her. She had to work very hard with total focus and determination to achieve what she did.
She keeps her feet firm on the ground and always says that there is more for her to learn and this modesty is what makes champions.
We had sprinter Nazmizan Muhamamd win the Vietnam Sea Games gold and that was the last we have heard of him. He claims to be injured and still trains with the support of NSC, but one wonders why.
He is more comfortable writing columns trying to motivate others from his probably flash-in-the-pan victory. How else can one conclude when one victory was enough to satisfy this athlete who has already been said that he wants to hang his spikes and settle down.
It takes a lion-heart to have achieved what Nicol has done because she was always against the odds against the much better physically built and exposed players in the squash circuit.
But Nicol took the bold decision to pull her self from the comfort of home and base herself in Holland and work very hard to overcome the odds.
She uses her asset in being lighting quick on feet as compared to the more physically better built players.
The support of the Squash Racquet Association of Malaysia, the Ministry of Youth and Sports through the National Sports Council, has certainly been a great heap for Nicol.
But at the end of the day, it is Nicol who is on the courts against her opponents and the last call to be a champion or not is her decision. And time again, she has proved that she is hungry enough to want more.
Nicol dominated the junior scene with two world titles in 1999 and 2001 and now she has stamped her mark at the senior level and at 23, there is certainly more to come.
Nicol will not compete in Doha to give Malaysia one of their gold medal. She will certainly start as a favourite and there is tremendous pressure on her. But rest assured that Nicol will not forgo the gold for not want of trying.
Nicol’s victory in Belfast should certainly serve as a morale booster for the Asian Games contingent who begin their challenge to return with at least nine gold medals.
Besides Nicol, the physically challenged athletes’ performance in the 9th Fespic Games which ends today in Kuala Lumpur, should also serve as a motivation factor for the athletes in Doha.
For the Fespic Games, they had a modest target of ten gold medals but they have surpassed it target more that double with their haul of …….(pls insert final gold medal won by Malaysia).
For those who took the opportunity to witness these physically challenged athletes complete, words will not explain what they had experienced.
For those who had missed the action, it is sad because they had missed a rare opportunity can change the lives of many after watching these athletes are capable of despite their setbacks. The spirit, morale, determination is something even the normal athletes fail to show.
The difference between the physically challenged athletes and the normal athletes is that the former appreciate any form assistance given to them and want to repay the confidence placed on them with top performances, while the latter take for granted what is offered to them and feel that everyone else owes to them to support them.
Maybe, we will get an Olympic gold medal from a physically challenged athlete! Surely not something to dismiss it.
But for now, all eyes will be on the Games of the Life.
It is time for the show to begin and the athletes to perform.
A great deal of the future funding for athletes in the coming years will depend a great deal on their performance here because a great deal of money has been spent for the preparation.
It is time to reap the rewards and it is time for the athletes to stand up and be counted.
Do not give excuses that they have a flu, have peaked too early, have aches and pains or the weather is too cool for their comfort here in Doha.
It is time for the athletes to prove that they are made of sterner stuff than mash mellows!
Malaysian sports could not have received a better morale booster for the Doha Asian Games which begin today.
Nicol Ann David first proved that Malaysians can be world champions and even more underlying in feat was that it was not a flash-in-the-pan victory when she went to defend the women’s World Open squash title in Belfast earlier this week.
Make no mistake about it that it is even more difficult to defend one’s crown than to win it the first time.
The petite Nicol who hails from Penang has certainly proved that Malaysian sportsmen and women can be world beaters and do it on a consistent basis.
But Nicol’s victory was certainly not handed on a sliver platter to her. She had to work very hard with total focus and determination to achieve what she did.
She keeps her feet firm on the ground and always says that there is more for her to learn and this modesty is what makes champions.
We had sprinter Nazmizan Muhamamd win the Vietnam Sea Games gold and that was the last we have heard of him. He claims to be injured and still trains with the support of NSC, but one wonders why.
He is more comfortable writing columns trying to motivate others from his probably flash-in-the-pan victory. How else can one conclude when one victory was enough to satisfy this athlete who has already been said that he wants to hang his spikes and settle down.
It takes a lion-heart to have achieved what Nicol has done because she was always against the odds against the much better physically built and exposed players in the squash circuit.
But Nicol took the bold decision to pull her self from the comfort of home and base herself in Holland and work very hard to overcome the odds.
She uses her asset in being lighting quick on feet as compared to the more physically better built players.
The support of the Squash Racquet Association of Malaysia, the Ministry of Youth and Sports through the National Sports Council, has certainly been a great heap for Nicol.
But at the end of the day, it is Nicol who is on the courts against her opponents and the last call to be a champion or not is her decision. And time again, she has proved that she is hungry enough to want more.
Nicol dominated the junior scene with two world titles in 1999 and 2001 and now she has stamped her mark at the senior level and at 23, there is certainly more to come.
Nicol will not compete in Doha to give Malaysia one of their gold medal. She will certainly start as a favourite and there is tremendous pressure on her. But rest assured that Nicol will not forgo the gold for not want of trying.
Nicol’s victory in Belfast should certainly serve as a morale booster for the Asian Games contingent who begin their challenge to return with at least nine gold medals.
Besides Nicol, the physically challenged athletes’ performance in the 9th Fespic Games which ends today in Kuala Lumpur, should also serve as a motivation factor for the athletes in Doha.
For the Fespic Games, they had a modest target of ten gold medals but they have surpassed it target more that double with their haul of …….(pls insert final gold medal won by Malaysia).
For those who took the opportunity to witness these physically challenged athletes complete, words will not explain what they had experienced.
For those who had missed the action, it is sad because they had missed a rare opportunity can change the lives of many after watching these athletes are capable of despite their setbacks. The spirit, morale, determination is something even the normal athletes fail to show.
The difference between the physically challenged athletes and the normal athletes is that the former appreciate any form assistance given to them and want to repay the confidence placed on them with top performances, while the latter take for granted what is offered to them and feel that everyone else owes to them to support them.
Maybe, we will get an Olympic gold medal from a physically challenged athlete! Surely not something to dismiss it.
But for now, all eyes will be on the Games of the Life.
It is time for the show to begin and the athletes to perform.
A great deal of the future funding for athletes in the coming years will depend a great deal on their performance here because a great deal of money has been spent for the preparation.
It is time to reap the rewards and it is time for the athletes to stand up and be counted.
Do not give excuses that they have a flu, have peaked too early, have aches and pains or the weather is too cool for their comfort here in Doha.
It is time for the athletes to prove that they are made of sterner stuff than mash mellows!
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Overcoming Challenges, Inspiring Others (2006 - Malaysian Today0
Overcoming Challenges, Inspiring Others
THE run-up to the Doha Asian Games starting on Dec 1 is certainly going to overshadow the start of the KL’06 9th Fespic Games starting today right in the heart of the city today.
Yes, the week-long Games is being hosted by Malaysia and despite the huge publicity given to the Games in terms of advertisement in the newspapers, radio, television and banners, there is worry among the organisers that this event which will see 47 of the 63 member countries competing, get a lukewarm response from the public.
To the public, maybe the fact that the Fespic Games is competed by the physically challenged athletes, it probably is less appealing.
In fact, it should be even more response to make a bee hive to the Stadiums to watch these athletes compete in the true spirit of sports and determination that might even put to shame some of the elite athletes in the country.
Believe me, being there at the Stadiums to see these physically challenged athletes, will change ones outlook of life.
Many of us, take life for granted just because we see, hear, talk and walk normally. So much so that many, hardly appreciate the goodness we are blessed in our lives no matter in how small or little way.
There will not only be 288 Malaysian athletes – 226 men and 62 women athletes, but a total of an estimated 5,000 athletes competing for a total of 553 gold medals in 19 disciplines.
It will indeed be a life time opportunity to see what these physically challenged athletes are capable.
I had a rare opportunity to cover the 20th Deaflympic Games in Melbourne in January 2005 in my sports journalism career spanning 27 years, and I dare say that it was one championship which touched me in many ways and made me appreciate live better and especially the physically challenged athletes.
There were moments when I was close to shedding tears when I saw the grit and determination shown by these deaf athletes who competed as if there was no tomorrow and their life depended on the outcome.
Some of colleagues and friends when from the Malay Mail then, laughed and teased me when they learnt that I was going to cover the Deaflympics. But I have this to say to them : “I am having the last laugh because they had missed a life time opportunity to experience something so beautiful which would touch anyone’s life and make them look at life in a different way.”
I did not cover the Melbourne Commonwealth Games a few months later, but even having covered the Sydney Olympics in 2000, the experience I cherished at the Deaflympics far more surpass my experience at the Olympics.
In all my years of covering sports events, never have I seen so much passion shown by athletes in representing their nation and competing for glory.
I expect even more touching moments at the Fespic Games, and it will be an opportunity no Malaysian should miss it.
The Malaysian contingent have boldly predicted that they will be gunning for ten gold medals and these athletes certainly deserve all the moral support to not only achieve but even surpass their target.
The physically challenged are not less than a normal human being because they are more than capable of doing anything any ordinary human being can and in fact more.
Take for instance the Chef-De-Mission of the Malaysian contingent for the Fespic Games – Prof Datuk Dr Ismail Mohd Salleh is an academician and economist.
As he himself aptly put it: Disability is not a hindrance to excellence. We need the will and I believe the team can do it. I hope the people will treat us equally as the able-bodies athletes.”
Ismail who is blind, is proof that disability is not an hindrance to achieving high standards in sports and business.
Ismail is the president of the Malaysian Association for Blind and CEO of the Twintech Holdings Sdn. Bhd.
School children especially should take advantage of the schools holidays to be at every venue possible for the whole of this week to experience for themselves the courage of these physically challenged athletes.
Infact, if some of the Doha Asian Games bound athletes can witness some of the events before they leave for Doha, it would certainly do a great deal for the spirit and morale.
As the logo for the Fespic Games says – Overcoming Challenges, Inspiring Others – these athletes are usually going to make a difference in everyone’s life who take the opportunity to watch them in action.
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, himself will officially be declaring the Games open tomorrow (Saturday) at the Kuala Lumpur Stadium at Bandar Tun Razak at 4pm, that alone should underline the importance the government is paying to this Games.
This will be life time opportunity to many Malaysians and it is one they can not afford to miss.
THE run-up to the Doha Asian Games starting on Dec 1 is certainly going to overshadow the start of the KL’06 9th Fespic Games starting today right in the heart of the city today.
Yes, the week-long Games is being hosted by Malaysia and despite the huge publicity given to the Games in terms of advertisement in the newspapers, radio, television and banners, there is worry among the organisers that this event which will see 47 of the 63 member countries competing, get a lukewarm response from the public.
To the public, maybe the fact that the Fespic Games is competed by the physically challenged athletes, it probably is less appealing.
In fact, it should be even more response to make a bee hive to the Stadiums to watch these athletes compete in the true spirit of sports and determination that might even put to shame some of the elite athletes in the country.
Believe me, being there at the Stadiums to see these physically challenged athletes, will change ones outlook of life.
Many of us, take life for granted just because we see, hear, talk and walk normally. So much so that many, hardly appreciate the goodness we are blessed in our lives no matter in how small or little way.
There will not only be 288 Malaysian athletes – 226 men and 62 women athletes, but a total of an estimated 5,000 athletes competing for a total of 553 gold medals in 19 disciplines.
It will indeed be a life time opportunity to see what these physically challenged athletes are capable.
I had a rare opportunity to cover the 20th Deaflympic Games in Melbourne in January 2005 in my sports journalism career spanning 27 years, and I dare say that it was one championship which touched me in many ways and made me appreciate live better and especially the physically challenged athletes.
There were moments when I was close to shedding tears when I saw the grit and determination shown by these deaf athletes who competed as if there was no tomorrow and their life depended on the outcome.
Some of colleagues and friends when from the Malay Mail then, laughed and teased me when they learnt that I was going to cover the Deaflympics. But I have this to say to them : “I am having the last laugh because they had missed a life time opportunity to experience something so beautiful which would touch anyone’s life and make them look at life in a different way.”
I did not cover the Melbourne Commonwealth Games a few months later, but even having covered the Sydney Olympics in 2000, the experience I cherished at the Deaflympics far more surpass my experience at the Olympics.
In all my years of covering sports events, never have I seen so much passion shown by athletes in representing their nation and competing for glory.
I expect even more touching moments at the Fespic Games, and it will be an opportunity no Malaysian should miss it.
The Malaysian contingent have boldly predicted that they will be gunning for ten gold medals and these athletes certainly deserve all the moral support to not only achieve but even surpass their target.
The physically challenged are not less than a normal human being because they are more than capable of doing anything any ordinary human being can and in fact more.
Take for instance the Chef-De-Mission of the Malaysian contingent for the Fespic Games – Prof Datuk Dr Ismail Mohd Salleh is an academician and economist.
As he himself aptly put it: Disability is not a hindrance to excellence. We need the will and I believe the team can do it. I hope the people will treat us equally as the able-bodies athletes.”
Ismail who is blind, is proof that disability is not an hindrance to achieving high standards in sports and business.
Ismail is the president of the Malaysian Association for Blind and CEO of the Twintech Holdings Sdn. Bhd.
School children especially should take advantage of the schools holidays to be at every venue possible for the whole of this week to experience for themselves the courage of these physically challenged athletes.
Infact, if some of the Doha Asian Games bound athletes can witness some of the events before they leave for Doha, it would certainly do a great deal for the spirit and morale.
As the logo for the Fespic Games says – Overcoming Challenges, Inspiring Others – these athletes are usually going to make a difference in everyone’s life who take the opportunity to watch them in action.
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, himself will officially be declaring the Games open tomorrow (Saturday) at the Kuala Lumpur Stadium at Bandar Tun Razak at 4pm, that alone should underline the importance the government is paying to this Games.
This will be life time opportunity to many Malaysians and it is one they can not afford to miss.
Wednesday, November 8, 2006
It's the gold that counts (August 2004 - Malaysian Today)
It's the gold that counts
WITH 97 days left for the Doha Asian Games today (Friday), there is mounting pressure for the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and National Sports Council (NSC) to announce their gold medal targets.
And with the OCM all see to meet next week and announce the qualifiers for the Games, there is going to be additional pressure to come up with targets.
While it is good to set targets, but to come up with number of gold medals three month before the Games could well not only be putting undue pressure on the athletes, but even more importantly, revealing ourselves to competing countries.
Besides, anything can happen within these three months before the Games, and if there is a reason to change the target, it could well draw media criticism.
But that does not mean that there is no monitoring of the progress of the Doha bound-athletes.
In fact, the Doha 2006 programme unit headed by Damien Kelly is constantly monitoring not only the progress of our athletes, but also the progress of opponents.
At the weekly Doha Games management committee headed by NSC;s deputy-director-general, Datuk Zolkples, Damien gives an update of the targeted medals. There have been cases when it varies from time to because of latest developments with either the Malaysian athletes or opponents.
At this meeting also, the National Sports Institute, comes up with detailed reports on all athletes on work done with physiology, conditioning, nutrition, biomechanics, psychology, medical, the findings and observations in each field and the recommendations.
This information is used by coaches to get the athletes in better condition periodically.
But one thing is sure at this point of time, where Malaysia hopes to better it’s last Asian Games outing in Busan four years ago when they won six gold, eight silver and 16 bronze.
Malaysia’s best ever gold medal haul in the Games was at the 1966 Bangkok Asian Games where seven gold medal were won together with five bronze and six bronze.
In terms of total medal haul (all colours), Malaysia hauled 30 at Busan and that is the highest – one more than the one Games before that in Bangkok where the total haul was 29.
But nobody remembers the silver or bronze medalist, despite it meaning being Asia’s number two or three.
Malaysia’s worst outing in the Games since Malaysia started participating at the 1954 Manila Asian Games, was when they returned only with one silver and four bronze.
It is the gold medals that matters to all and will be the measurement for success or failure of the Doha programme.
Thus, the actual target for Doha has to be very carefully decided and announced because it is going to be used as the yardstick for success or failure.
Hence, is fair at this stage, instead of coming up with specific targets and identifying the sports or athletes, to say that they are going to better the Busan six gold medal haul.
But followers of sports in Malaysia, can readily predict the gold medal winners in Doha.
It would be appropriate probably to come up with the exact expected medal haul probably a fortnight before the Games and this will be a more accurate prediction.
Current unofficial predictions have been hovering between eight and ten gold medals.
Predictions can be made, but there is no guarantee in sports.
The best of preparations can go haywire at the eleventh hour. Sometimes in subjective sports, judging can be an issue. The element of luck to comes into play.
But at the end of the day, with the Government allocating huge sum of money for sports, there has to be accountability and results are the best justifications.
However, it is a collective effort with everyone – athletes, coaches, officials and support staff - working in unison and precision for the final product.
Maybe, it is time the media from all the experience over the years, come up with their medal prediction and check it against final results after the Games.
But one prediction which is going come out soon will be from the sports associations, but this will mostly like be an exaggerated one, because most of them will their sports to look good and justify their inclusion for the Games.
Whatever happens, the last call is with the athletes and hopefully they will return from Doha with reasons to be proud and see Malaysian sports continue to get the kind of support the Government has been extending to them.
WITH 97 days left for the Doha Asian Games today (Friday), there is mounting pressure for the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and National Sports Council (NSC) to announce their gold medal targets.
And with the OCM all see to meet next week and announce the qualifiers for the Games, there is going to be additional pressure to come up with targets.
While it is good to set targets, but to come up with number of gold medals three month before the Games could well not only be putting undue pressure on the athletes, but even more importantly, revealing ourselves to competing countries.
Besides, anything can happen within these three months before the Games, and if there is a reason to change the target, it could well draw media criticism.
But that does not mean that there is no monitoring of the progress of the Doha bound-athletes.
In fact, the Doha 2006 programme unit headed by Damien Kelly is constantly monitoring not only the progress of our athletes, but also the progress of opponents.
At the weekly Doha Games management committee headed by NSC;s deputy-director-general, Datuk Zolkples, Damien gives an update of the targeted medals. There have been cases when it varies from time to because of latest developments with either the Malaysian athletes or opponents.
At this meeting also, the National Sports Institute, comes up with detailed reports on all athletes on work done with physiology, conditioning, nutrition, biomechanics, psychology, medical, the findings and observations in each field and the recommendations.
This information is used by coaches to get the athletes in better condition periodically.
But one thing is sure at this point of time, where Malaysia hopes to better it’s last Asian Games outing in Busan four years ago when they won six gold, eight silver and 16 bronze.
Malaysia’s best ever gold medal haul in the Games was at the 1966 Bangkok Asian Games where seven gold medal were won together with five bronze and six bronze.
In terms of total medal haul (all colours), Malaysia hauled 30 at Busan and that is the highest – one more than the one Games before that in Bangkok where the total haul was 29.
But nobody remembers the silver or bronze medalist, despite it meaning being Asia’s number two or three.
Malaysia’s worst outing in the Games since Malaysia started participating at the 1954 Manila Asian Games, was when they returned only with one silver and four bronze.
It is the gold medals that matters to all and will be the measurement for success or failure of the Doha programme.
Thus, the actual target for Doha has to be very carefully decided and announced because it is going to be used as the yardstick for success or failure.
Hence, is fair at this stage, instead of coming up with specific targets and identifying the sports or athletes, to say that they are going to better the Busan six gold medal haul.
But followers of sports in Malaysia, can readily predict the gold medal winners in Doha.
It would be appropriate probably to come up with the exact expected medal haul probably a fortnight before the Games and this will be a more accurate prediction.
Current unofficial predictions have been hovering between eight and ten gold medals.
Predictions can be made, but there is no guarantee in sports.
The best of preparations can go haywire at the eleventh hour. Sometimes in subjective sports, judging can be an issue. The element of luck to comes into play.
But at the end of the day, with the Government allocating huge sum of money for sports, there has to be accountability and results are the best justifications.
However, it is a collective effort with everyone – athletes, coaches, officials and support staff - working in unison and precision for the final product.
Maybe, it is time the media from all the experience over the years, come up with their medal prediction and check it against final results after the Games.
But one prediction which is going come out soon will be from the sports associations, but this will mostly like be an exaggerated one, because most of them will their sports to look good and justify their inclusion for the Games.
Whatever happens, the last call is with the athletes and hopefully they will return from Doha with reasons to be proud and see Malaysian sports continue to get the kind of support the Government has been extending to them.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
NSAs walking on thin ice (2006 - Malaysian Today)
NSAs walking on thin ice
NATIONAL Sports Associations (NSAs), especially those in the Eight Core Sports, are walking on thin ice.
The Ministry of Sports and the National Sports Council (NSC), have had enough of funding NSAs, but not seeing the desired returns in terms of achievements.
NSC is even more concerned because they are literally funding NSAs from A to Z.
Even development work is done by NSC for NSAs.
The last straw to break the camel’s back was when the national badminton team returned from the World Championship in Madrid last week, with just a bronze medal to show from the mixed doubles of Koo Kien Keat and Wong Pei Tty.
While there is reason to believe that the shuttlers were saving their best for the Doha Asian Games in December, NSC;s question is simple – why them go with a full squad and spend almost a million ringgit.
This is the second debacle by a NSA this year, with the hockey team having failed in the World Cup qualifiers earlier.
And NSC is not amused because they have been providing everything the NSAs require, but only to see no results worth mentioning.
Without doubt, the Doha Asian Games, is the last chance for NSAs to put things right and deliver.
Failing which, the NSAs can expect drastic cuts in support and even the possibility of being left out of the Eight Core Sports.
The Government has been very generous in providing support to NSAs both in kind and cash and support over the last few years have been like never seen before in Malaysian sports.
NSC have come to terms that many NSAs have been taking their support for granted, while athletes have been getting into the comfort zone.
And they certainly intend to put as stop to that and it is about time they did, because NSAs have become over-dependent on the NSC.
NSAs are no longer self-reliant and looking for sponsorships to manage their affairs has become a foreign language.
It is no secret that NSAs in Malaysia are a lucky lot, because no where else in the world do NSAs receive the kind of support that is available in Malaysia.
Yes, foreign nations too support their sports, but it is minimal and if the amount is big, then they are supporting winners not losers.
NSC’s outburst after the badminton’s dismal performance at Madrid, had better serve as a final warning to NSAs because the Government is dead-serious about cutting down the support, if no results are fort coming.
Of course, success does not come overnight, but at least there must be some signs that a particular sports in moving in the right direction.
All that most sports have been signaling, is the downward trend.
Just look at athletics, which was the pride of the nation not too long among many other sports including soccer.
It was pathetic to witness at their recent national championships in Penang that foreign teams like Thailand and Myanmar sent more athletes than some States.
And the fact that some events did not even have enough athletes, was surely a sign that something was wrong in the sports and that development has been neglected starring at us.
Instead of trying to restore some pride in the historical sport, there is in-fighting in the association, getting rid of people who are interested in doing genuine work and almost everyone working against each other and harmony is an alien word to them.
Sport in the country is indeed in a sad state of affairs, when it should be at its best with the kind of support they get from the Government these days.
To make matters worse, there are NSAs who do not even have their house in order.
How are they going to look into the welfare of their athletes, when they own house is in a mess.
Sometimes, officials forget that they exist because of the athletes.
Of course some officials, will want to argue that without them, the athletes do not exist.
But one look at most NSAs clearly show that it is the officials who are messing up things in their associations.
To top it all, we have unscrupulous officials who misuse the funds of their NSAs.
Maybe, the time has come for all senior officials who have over-stayed their welcome in their respective NSAs to make way for young and professional blood to manage NSAs like it should be in this modern age of sports – like a business.
At least then, we will have proper accountability, transparency and creditability in NSAs.
And the sooner it happens, the better it is for the future of Malaysian sports.
Indications are that some drastic measures are expected to be taken after the Doha Asian Games as a measure of house cleaning in many NSAs.
NATIONAL Sports Associations (NSAs), especially those in the Eight Core Sports, are walking on thin ice.
The Ministry of Sports and the National Sports Council (NSC), have had enough of funding NSAs, but not seeing the desired returns in terms of achievements.
NSC is even more concerned because they are literally funding NSAs from A to Z.
Even development work is done by NSC for NSAs.
The last straw to break the camel’s back was when the national badminton team returned from the World Championship in Madrid last week, with just a bronze medal to show from the mixed doubles of Koo Kien Keat and Wong Pei Tty.
While there is reason to believe that the shuttlers were saving their best for the Doha Asian Games in December, NSC;s question is simple – why them go with a full squad and spend almost a million ringgit.
This is the second debacle by a NSA this year, with the hockey team having failed in the World Cup qualifiers earlier.
And NSC is not amused because they have been providing everything the NSAs require, but only to see no results worth mentioning.
Without doubt, the Doha Asian Games, is the last chance for NSAs to put things right and deliver.
Failing which, the NSAs can expect drastic cuts in support and even the possibility of being left out of the Eight Core Sports.
The Government has been very generous in providing support to NSAs both in kind and cash and support over the last few years have been like never seen before in Malaysian sports.
NSC have come to terms that many NSAs have been taking their support for granted, while athletes have been getting into the comfort zone.
And they certainly intend to put as stop to that and it is about time they did, because NSAs have become over-dependent on the NSC.
NSAs are no longer self-reliant and looking for sponsorships to manage their affairs has become a foreign language.
It is no secret that NSAs in Malaysia are a lucky lot, because no where else in the world do NSAs receive the kind of support that is available in Malaysia.
Yes, foreign nations too support their sports, but it is minimal and if the amount is big, then they are supporting winners not losers.
NSC’s outburst after the badminton’s dismal performance at Madrid, had better serve as a final warning to NSAs because the Government is dead-serious about cutting down the support, if no results are fort coming.
Of course, success does not come overnight, but at least there must be some signs that a particular sports in moving in the right direction.
All that most sports have been signaling, is the downward trend.
Just look at athletics, which was the pride of the nation not too long among many other sports including soccer.
It was pathetic to witness at their recent national championships in Penang that foreign teams like Thailand and Myanmar sent more athletes than some States.
And the fact that some events did not even have enough athletes, was surely a sign that something was wrong in the sports and that development has been neglected starring at us.
Instead of trying to restore some pride in the historical sport, there is in-fighting in the association, getting rid of people who are interested in doing genuine work and almost everyone working against each other and harmony is an alien word to them.
Sport in the country is indeed in a sad state of affairs, when it should be at its best with the kind of support they get from the Government these days.
To make matters worse, there are NSAs who do not even have their house in order.
How are they going to look into the welfare of their athletes, when they own house is in a mess.
Sometimes, officials forget that they exist because of the athletes.
Of course some officials, will want to argue that without them, the athletes do not exist.
But one look at most NSAs clearly show that it is the officials who are messing up things in their associations.
To top it all, we have unscrupulous officials who misuse the funds of their NSAs.
Maybe, the time has come for all senior officials who have over-stayed their welcome in their respective NSAs to make way for young and professional blood to manage NSAs like it should be in this modern age of sports – like a business.
At least then, we will have proper accountability, transparency and creditability in NSAs.
And the sooner it happens, the better it is for the future of Malaysian sports.
Indications are that some drastic measures are expected to be taken after the Doha Asian Games as a measure of house cleaning in many NSAs.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Stand up and be counted (Sept 2006 - Malaysian Today)
Stand up and be counted
WHAT are the responsibilities of National Sports Associations (NSAs) today?
Gone are the days when NSAs were responsible for the development of their respective sports and their sports achieving the highest level of performance, both locally and internationally.
Moreover, most of the NSAs used to produce results in both areas despite them being amateurs and the associations run mainly by volunteers.
But these days with fulltime staff in NSAs and sports having moved into a professional era, the results are not forthcoming.
More sadly, the development of sports has been neglected by most.
These days, NSAs look to the National Sports Council and the Ministry of Sports for almost every activity they want to do.
Of course, there are a handful of NSAs who source for their own funds, but the majority just wait for handouts.
Just look at NSAs that have done well in their respective sports. One thing that shines like a beacon is that the administration is excellent and the NSA is headed by sports-loving personnel with professional backgrounds.
It is appalling how some NSAs ask for funds to host events and submit the entire budget for these – from allowances for officials to the farewell dinner -- without making any effort to get funds on their own.
Or is it that NSAs do source for sponsorship, but do not make it known? They still manage to organise their events although, more often than not, when their request is finally approved, they only get a portion of the budget they submitted.
So, is there any accountability for the sponsorship money?
There are NSAs whose sport is fast dropping in standards, but they want to impress the world by trying to organise international seminars and courses, but with funds from the NSC or the Ministry of Sports.
Then there are NSAs which receive aid from the funding authorities, but still complain that they have not been supported financially.
Some even complain that all the funding has been going towards the athletes’ training, allowance, food and lodging, while they themselves do not get cash in hand.
Are the athletes from NSAs not part and parcel of them?
To top it all, when their sports does not deliver at international events, they point the finger at the NSC; some have even accused it of meddling in their affairs.
But when they ask for funds, they ask for the sky.
It is about time NSAs are held accountable and responsible too.
When they present their cases to the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) for the inclusion of their athletes in international events, they promise that they can deliver a certain number of gold medals just to get their athletes in.
But when their athletes fail, they look for scapegoats to pin the blame on.
At least, they should share some of the responsibility with the NSC which provide them with financial aid for training and development and support services for their athletes.
Foreign coaches are even hired after consultation with NSAs. So, are NSAs not answerable for their choices when their sports does not deliver.
The NSC and the Ministry of Sports too have to take a share of the blame for being too generous and letting others take them for granted.
Maybe the Government’s policy to support sports in a big way and the allocation of huge amounts of money has made all NSAs complacent and over-dependent.
There needs to be a review and funds only allocated to the real deserving cases, like NSAs that have a track record of delivering when it matters most, NSAs that give proper account of all funds used from allocations and NSAs that are transparent and genuine in their efforts.
Officials who are in NSAs for their own benefit and have their own agenda have to make way for those who are truly passionate about sports.
Sports certainly does not need officials who only give lip service, use their political clout to get things for themselves and above all, kill the sports they are in charge of.
It is only a matter of time before heads roll and the culprits are exposed and hopefully when the New Year comes in four months’ time, Malaysian sports can, once and for all, start on a fresh footing that is conducive to its development, growth and excellence.
For far too long, many have taken advantage of the generosity available in the name of sports, and in the end, the athletes and sports are the losers.
The brakes have to be applied to this and it must happen before Malaysian sports becomes a joke.
WHAT are the responsibilities of National Sports Associations (NSAs) today?
Gone are the days when NSAs were responsible for the development of their respective sports and their sports achieving the highest level of performance, both locally and internationally.
Moreover, most of the NSAs used to produce results in both areas despite them being amateurs and the associations run mainly by volunteers.
But these days with fulltime staff in NSAs and sports having moved into a professional era, the results are not forthcoming.
More sadly, the development of sports has been neglected by most.
These days, NSAs look to the National Sports Council and the Ministry of Sports for almost every activity they want to do.
Of course, there are a handful of NSAs who source for their own funds, but the majority just wait for handouts.
Just look at NSAs that have done well in their respective sports. One thing that shines like a beacon is that the administration is excellent and the NSA is headed by sports-loving personnel with professional backgrounds.
It is appalling how some NSAs ask for funds to host events and submit the entire budget for these – from allowances for officials to the farewell dinner -- without making any effort to get funds on their own.
Or is it that NSAs do source for sponsorship, but do not make it known? They still manage to organise their events although, more often than not, when their request is finally approved, they only get a portion of the budget they submitted.
So, is there any accountability for the sponsorship money?
There are NSAs whose sport is fast dropping in standards, but they want to impress the world by trying to organise international seminars and courses, but with funds from the NSC or the Ministry of Sports.
Then there are NSAs which receive aid from the funding authorities, but still complain that they have not been supported financially.
Some even complain that all the funding has been going towards the athletes’ training, allowance, food and lodging, while they themselves do not get cash in hand.
Are the athletes from NSAs not part and parcel of them?
To top it all, when their sports does not deliver at international events, they point the finger at the NSC; some have even accused it of meddling in their affairs.
But when they ask for funds, they ask for the sky.
It is about time NSAs are held accountable and responsible too.
When they present their cases to the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) for the inclusion of their athletes in international events, they promise that they can deliver a certain number of gold medals just to get their athletes in.
But when their athletes fail, they look for scapegoats to pin the blame on.
At least, they should share some of the responsibility with the NSC which provide them with financial aid for training and development and support services for their athletes.
Foreign coaches are even hired after consultation with NSAs. So, are NSAs not answerable for their choices when their sports does not deliver.
The NSC and the Ministry of Sports too have to take a share of the blame for being too generous and letting others take them for granted.
Maybe the Government’s policy to support sports in a big way and the allocation of huge amounts of money has made all NSAs complacent and over-dependent.
There needs to be a review and funds only allocated to the real deserving cases, like NSAs that have a track record of delivering when it matters most, NSAs that give proper account of all funds used from allocations and NSAs that are transparent and genuine in their efforts.
Officials who are in NSAs for their own benefit and have their own agenda have to make way for those who are truly passionate about sports.
Sports certainly does not need officials who only give lip service, use their political clout to get things for themselves and above all, kill the sports they are in charge of.
It is only a matter of time before heads roll and the culprits are exposed and hopefully when the New Year comes in four months’ time, Malaysian sports can, once and for all, start on a fresh footing that is conducive to its development, growth and excellence.
For far too long, many have taken advantage of the generosity available in the name of sports, and in the end, the athletes and sports are the losers.
The brakes have to be applied to this and it must happen before Malaysian sports becomes a joke.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Cobra Sting! (2006- Malaysian Today)
Cobra Sting!
IT is private clubs like Cobra (Combined Old Boys Rugby Association) who have given hope for the future of sports in the Malaysia.
While many national sports associations have become over depended on handouts to conduct their activities, it is clubs like Cobra who have emerged that pride and passion can take them a long way.
Infact, putting to shame many established associations who come no where close to the management of Cobra.
And this was clearly noticed and underlined by none other than the Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Azalina Othman Said when she was invited by Cobra to their humble home in Petaling Jaya to officially announce the club’s 36th HSBC-Cobra Invitational Rugby 10s to held from Sept 8-10 at the Petaling Jaya Stadium in Kelana Jaya.
Azalina went to commend on the club for having achieved what many established sports associations have failed, where they had not only organized an international tournament with excellence, but at the sametime went on to expose Malaysia to the world.
And it was just not the international exposure that the tournament attained, but the fact the club’s development programme was displayed to the world, drew accolades.
And to top it all, the club members worked very hard to raise the funds for the event and ensured transparency to the core, that corporate sponsors had no hesitation to return and continue to support them.
For a club with a humble beginning when they were formed in 1967 to encourage young Malaysians to continue playing rugby after leaving school, they have certainly come a long way.
The clubhouse today stands on a piece of land which pioneer and life member Datuk Aziz Ismail, one of the best scrum-halves the nation produced, had assisted to acquire in the 70s when he was attached to the Petaling Jaya Land Office.
Today the club boasts of a complex which has a gymnasium, squash and badminton courts, training rooms, dormitories and function rooms.
It has been a long walk to where they are today, but it was pride and passion for the game, that has seen the club this far.
Officials leading the club are sportsmen who only have the game at heart.
Their ability to coax sponsors and working partners in terms of big corporations, only speaks volume of confidence this club is oozing out.
Infact, more and more private clubs like Ulu Kelang Recreation Club, Selangor Club, Penang Sports Club, Penang Swimming Club, Penang Chinese Swimming Club to name a few have surfaced to show excellent management and programmes held to uplift sports in the country.
Malaysians generally have been known to be excellent organisers, but of late have got some backlashes as more and more associations either take things for granted or take the easy way out by getting management companies to manage their affairs for them.
But Cobra will have no such thing, because they are proud of what they do and want to slog it out themselves, so that they can savor the fruit of their labour.
More importantly, they do not want to tarnish their good reputation built over the years.
Their previous tournament report presented on Tuesday, was nothing less to a big corporation report with every minute detail listed – from number of newspapers clippings which appeared for the tournament to television viewership.
That a small club like Cobra could attract international television to air their tournament which finally reached 90 million household world wide, is indeed by no means an easy feat.
It was not surprising that Azalina in her speech said that many NSAs can take cue from Cobra.
Azalina said: “If only all national associations managed like Cobra, sports in the country will be striving.”
Indeed, sports in Malaysia will be booming, especially with excellent Government support which includes millions of ringgit spent on sports, infra-structure, incentives, salaries etc.
What most national associations lack compared to Cobra is the pride and passion for the game.
Many are in the sports for the money they can make out of it, rather than what they can give the game.
With sports sponsorship being part and parcel of the game, many have taken these sponsorships for granted and in some instances, even abused it.
Sponsors have every right to demand for accountability, but more often than not, sponsors are treated as just as “hand-out machines”.
Sports has moved to a new and modern generation, but with it, officials have to keep tab with the latest developments and trends in sports management and manage their associations like they managing corporations.
Cobra is a fine shining example for NSAs to emulate, because if a small club of 200 members can achieve something so magnitude and meaningful, they surely must have something good going.
Long live Cobra!
IT is private clubs like Cobra (Combined Old Boys Rugby Association) who have given hope for the future of sports in the Malaysia.
While many national sports associations have become over depended on handouts to conduct their activities, it is clubs like Cobra who have emerged that pride and passion can take them a long way.
Infact, putting to shame many established associations who come no where close to the management of Cobra.
And this was clearly noticed and underlined by none other than the Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Azalina Othman Said when she was invited by Cobra to their humble home in Petaling Jaya to officially announce the club’s 36th HSBC-Cobra Invitational Rugby 10s to held from Sept 8-10 at the Petaling Jaya Stadium in Kelana Jaya.
Azalina went to commend on the club for having achieved what many established sports associations have failed, where they had not only organized an international tournament with excellence, but at the sametime went on to expose Malaysia to the world.
And it was just not the international exposure that the tournament attained, but the fact the club’s development programme was displayed to the world, drew accolades.
And to top it all, the club members worked very hard to raise the funds for the event and ensured transparency to the core, that corporate sponsors had no hesitation to return and continue to support them.
For a club with a humble beginning when they were formed in 1967 to encourage young Malaysians to continue playing rugby after leaving school, they have certainly come a long way.
The clubhouse today stands on a piece of land which pioneer and life member Datuk Aziz Ismail, one of the best scrum-halves the nation produced, had assisted to acquire in the 70s when he was attached to the Petaling Jaya Land Office.
Today the club boasts of a complex which has a gymnasium, squash and badminton courts, training rooms, dormitories and function rooms.
It has been a long walk to where they are today, but it was pride and passion for the game, that has seen the club this far.
Officials leading the club are sportsmen who only have the game at heart.
Their ability to coax sponsors and working partners in terms of big corporations, only speaks volume of confidence this club is oozing out.
Infact, more and more private clubs like Ulu Kelang Recreation Club, Selangor Club, Penang Sports Club, Penang Swimming Club, Penang Chinese Swimming Club to name a few have surfaced to show excellent management and programmes held to uplift sports in the country.
Malaysians generally have been known to be excellent organisers, but of late have got some backlashes as more and more associations either take things for granted or take the easy way out by getting management companies to manage their affairs for them.
But Cobra will have no such thing, because they are proud of what they do and want to slog it out themselves, so that they can savor the fruit of their labour.
More importantly, they do not want to tarnish their good reputation built over the years.
Their previous tournament report presented on Tuesday, was nothing less to a big corporation report with every minute detail listed – from number of newspapers clippings which appeared for the tournament to television viewership.
That a small club like Cobra could attract international television to air their tournament which finally reached 90 million household world wide, is indeed by no means an easy feat.
It was not surprising that Azalina in her speech said that many NSAs can take cue from Cobra.
Azalina said: “If only all national associations managed like Cobra, sports in the country will be striving.”
Indeed, sports in Malaysia will be booming, especially with excellent Government support which includes millions of ringgit spent on sports, infra-structure, incentives, salaries etc.
What most national associations lack compared to Cobra is the pride and passion for the game.
Many are in the sports for the money they can make out of it, rather than what they can give the game.
With sports sponsorship being part and parcel of the game, many have taken these sponsorships for granted and in some instances, even abused it.
Sponsors have every right to demand for accountability, but more often than not, sponsors are treated as just as “hand-out machines”.
Sports has moved to a new and modern generation, but with it, officials have to keep tab with the latest developments and trends in sports management and manage their associations like they managing corporations.
Cobra is a fine shining example for NSAs to emulate, because if a small club of 200 members can achieve something so magnitude and meaningful, they surely must have something good going.
Long live Cobra!
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Pampered Lot? (2006- Malaysian Today)
Pampered Lot?
ARE our Malaysian athletes a pampered lot and who demand a great?
If present days are compared to yesteryears sportsmen and women, there is no doubt that the current athletes are indeed a pampered lot.
But the argument would be that times have changed and sport now plays an integral part of the society.
Agreed. But then should not the results in sports be better than yesterday years.
Outstanding achievements and rankings in the world of several sports were attained twenty thirty years ago, when facilities were at bare minimum, the assistance of top level and foreign coaches virtually missing, support and funding from government also minimum or non-existence, hardly any rewards offered for achievements and the benefit of overseas training stints being rare or nil.
Presently, with ultra modern facilities which are world-class, availability of top coaches both from locally and foreign, full support from the government including scholarships to further education, high rewards in terms of cash and material and not only regular overseas training stints, but being based overseas for long term periods and more recently even the setting up of a permanent training centre in London, athletes are still unable to produce the desired results and put Malaysia on higher grounds in the world arena.
Now we have to ask if the present day athletes are a lot pampered who have lost the drive for success, glory and honour and some are even branded as “spoilt-brats.”
There have been cases of athletes who had the benefit of overseas stints on a long term period together with education, but at the end hold bodies like the National Sports Council (NSC) and National Associations (NA) are ransom.
These athletes, either demand more from the NSC or NA every time while they are based overseas, or at the end of their stint of studies, do no want to return to Malaysia to repay the dues and knowledge they have gathered over the years.
Then, there are those who are recalled back to Malaysia to continue training on home soil, who refuse to return and threaten to quit the sports if they are forced to return.
There are others who prepared to return, provided they are given the same remunerations as they were when they were based overseas.
Of course, we also have home based athletes who are continuously asking for better remunerations, but have not produces results to equate the spending and returns.
The Government, through the Ministry of Sports and NSC, has continuously been trying to improve the status of athletes in the country, and presently there are great opportunities and is worthwhile for athletes, to make sports a career.
Even coaches have been recognised and athletes after their prime, can become coaches and earn a decent living.
Yet, Malaysia is still struggling to make a strong impact in many sports and in some sports where achievements are forthcoming, it is not on a consistent basis.
There is no doubt that NSC is taking a serious view on the matter, and unless the athletes can change their mind-set, work towards excellence with great passion, and be consistent, they could be up against some censures.
As much as the Government supports sports, there needs to be accountability too.
The Doha Asian Games in December, will be a yardstick to measure some amount of success especially from the elite athletes and after which, there is a strong indication that there is going to be stock taking.
The Government cannot be pouring in the money to sports without proper returns.
And the athletes have the onus to prove themselves and repay their dues.
Failing which, they could well be deciding their own fate.
It is not that the Government is going to stop funding if there are no results, but they could well be very selective and probably pay more emphasis on development with the hope of producing a new set of athletes with the right mindset towards sports.
Gone are the days of passion, pride and perfection.
To be fair to the athletes, there are athletes with the above qualities presently, but there out numbered by those who believe that sports owe them a living instead of earning it.
When we have athletes even at the Malaysia Games who hold States at a ransom where they offer their services to the one who pays them the highest, they have become mercenaries.
Even mercenaries can be forgiven, if they return with victory and honour, but when results are not forthcoming, they are only taking the taxpayers for a ride!
ARE our Malaysian athletes a pampered lot and who demand a great?
If present days are compared to yesteryears sportsmen and women, there is no doubt that the current athletes are indeed a pampered lot.
But the argument would be that times have changed and sport now plays an integral part of the society.
Agreed. But then should not the results in sports be better than yesterday years.
Outstanding achievements and rankings in the world of several sports were attained twenty thirty years ago, when facilities were at bare minimum, the assistance of top level and foreign coaches virtually missing, support and funding from government also minimum or non-existence, hardly any rewards offered for achievements and the benefit of overseas training stints being rare or nil.
Presently, with ultra modern facilities which are world-class, availability of top coaches both from locally and foreign, full support from the government including scholarships to further education, high rewards in terms of cash and material and not only regular overseas training stints, but being based overseas for long term periods and more recently even the setting up of a permanent training centre in London, athletes are still unable to produce the desired results and put Malaysia on higher grounds in the world arena.
Now we have to ask if the present day athletes are a lot pampered who have lost the drive for success, glory and honour and some are even branded as “spoilt-brats.”
There have been cases of athletes who had the benefit of overseas stints on a long term period together with education, but at the end hold bodies like the National Sports Council (NSC) and National Associations (NA) are ransom.
These athletes, either demand more from the NSC or NA every time while they are based overseas, or at the end of their stint of studies, do no want to return to Malaysia to repay the dues and knowledge they have gathered over the years.
Then, there are those who are recalled back to Malaysia to continue training on home soil, who refuse to return and threaten to quit the sports if they are forced to return.
There are others who prepared to return, provided they are given the same remunerations as they were when they were based overseas.
Of course, we also have home based athletes who are continuously asking for better remunerations, but have not produces results to equate the spending and returns.
The Government, through the Ministry of Sports and NSC, has continuously been trying to improve the status of athletes in the country, and presently there are great opportunities and is worthwhile for athletes, to make sports a career.
Even coaches have been recognised and athletes after their prime, can become coaches and earn a decent living.
Yet, Malaysia is still struggling to make a strong impact in many sports and in some sports where achievements are forthcoming, it is not on a consistent basis.
There is no doubt that NSC is taking a serious view on the matter, and unless the athletes can change their mind-set, work towards excellence with great passion, and be consistent, they could be up against some censures.
As much as the Government supports sports, there needs to be accountability too.
The Doha Asian Games in December, will be a yardstick to measure some amount of success especially from the elite athletes and after which, there is a strong indication that there is going to be stock taking.
The Government cannot be pouring in the money to sports without proper returns.
And the athletes have the onus to prove themselves and repay their dues.
Failing which, they could well be deciding their own fate.
It is not that the Government is going to stop funding if there are no results, but they could well be very selective and probably pay more emphasis on development with the hope of producing a new set of athletes with the right mindset towards sports.
Gone are the days of passion, pride and perfection.
To be fair to the athletes, there are athletes with the above qualities presently, but there out numbered by those who believe that sports owe them a living instead of earning it.
When we have athletes even at the Malaysia Games who hold States at a ransom where they offer their services to the one who pays them the highest, they have become mercenaries.
Even mercenaries can be forgiven, if they return with victory and honour, but when results are not forthcoming, they are only taking the taxpayers for a ride!
Monday, July 10, 2006
Rajagopal's Babes (2006 - Malaysian Today)
Rajagopal's Babes
THE National Under-20 soccer team is to come under the National Sports Council (NSC), as a long-term plan to build formidable national team.
Infact, a MoU between NSC and the FA of Malaysia has already been signed have already been signed early this month.
And on Tuesday, the Cabinet Committee for Sports headed by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Seri Tun Razak, further affirmed the status of the National Under-20 team when he instructed that the National Sports Council (NSC) immediately take charge of the team both on the financial aspect and training.
The Under-20 team coached by K. Rajagopal is seen as the hope for future of the sports.
However, there is more to than the eye meets in this delicate situation.
While the move to take charge of the National Under-20 is noble, where all assistance will be taken care of by the Government, but there are too many technicalities which are involved which will throw plan in disarray.
For starters, the FA of Malaysia affiliates (State FAs), who have players in the Under-20 who are contracted to them, will be up in arms, as they no longer can use the services of these players in the domestic league – immediately the Malaysia Cup competition.
Secondly, the Under-20 players who already have contracts with the State FAs will be reluctant to severe ties with their employers as they would definitely be getting more than what NSC will be paying them monthly.
Then, there is the issue of governance of the team because if NSC manages the team, FA of Malaysia could run foul of allowing Government interference, which FIFA, does not condone and will not recognise Malaysia football.
Of course there are ways to work around it with FA of Malaysia still being involved with the team, to keep everything above board.
Lastly, with the Asian Youth championship just around the corner in India, anything drastic changes mid-stream with a team which has been shaping up well, could prove disastrous.
However, while both FA of Malaysia and NSC having in principle agreed on the “marriage” in the best interest of soccer in the country, there is always a common path which can be taken.
In this context, both FA of Malaysia and NSC are expected to sit down and trash out the finer details so that this program is not derailed.
Without doubt the Government is serious about sports and thus their involvement.
The fact that a Sports Cabinet had been set up and chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Seri Tun Razak, himself, underlines the seriousness of the Government to see sports in general excel in the world arena.
At the Sports Cabinet meeting on Tuesday morning, several other decisions were also taken and the decision to introduce the National Coaching Scheme, was another step which takes Malaysian sports to another level.
Gone are the days when coaches were no recognized, or sports did not offer a career to athletes.
With the introduction of the Scheme, which was presented by the National Coaching Board, coaching can now become a career.
And coaches will also get the opportunity to upgrade themselves with knowledge and the more they gain, the better remunerations they will get.
And it is not just the fulltime coaches who benefit from this scheme, but also the many part-time coaches who do a lot of development work, but are more often than not recognised or remunerated.
With more qualified and satisfied coached in place, it is hoped that the overall standard of sports will rise at a fast level for the nation to attain success at the Asian and World level in the near future.
The elite training centre in Hertfordshire, near London, which is operational from yesterday (Thursday – June 22), is another milestone for Malaysian sports, where an opportunity has been created for Malaysian athletes to be based and train overseas where they will be exposed to high level training and competition.
Squash will be the first to utilise the facility and followed by the Under-20 team next in line.
Sports in the country have never had so good and if only the returns equate with the money spent, it will all be a dream come true for the nation.
Ends.
THE National Under-20 soccer team is to come under the National Sports Council (NSC), as a long-term plan to build formidable national team.
Infact, a MoU between NSC and the FA of Malaysia has already been signed have already been signed early this month.
And on Tuesday, the Cabinet Committee for Sports headed by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Seri Tun Razak, further affirmed the status of the National Under-20 team when he instructed that the National Sports Council (NSC) immediately take charge of the team both on the financial aspect and training.
The Under-20 team coached by K. Rajagopal is seen as the hope for future of the sports.
However, there is more to than the eye meets in this delicate situation.
While the move to take charge of the National Under-20 is noble, where all assistance will be taken care of by the Government, but there are too many technicalities which are involved which will throw plan in disarray.
For starters, the FA of Malaysia affiliates (State FAs), who have players in the Under-20 who are contracted to them, will be up in arms, as they no longer can use the services of these players in the domestic league – immediately the Malaysia Cup competition.
Secondly, the Under-20 players who already have contracts with the State FAs will be reluctant to severe ties with their employers as they would definitely be getting more than what NSC will be paying them monthly.
Then, there is the issue of governance of the team because if NSC manages the team, FA of Malaysia could run foul of allowing Government interference, which FIFA, does not condone and will not recognise Malaysia football.
Of course there are ways to work around it with FA of Malaysia still being involved with the team, to keep everything above board.
Lastly, with the Asian Youth championship just around the corner in India, anything drastic changes mid-stream with a team which has been shaping up well, could prove disastrous.
However, while both FA of Malaysia and NSC having in principle agreed on the “marriage” in the best interest of soccer in the country, there is always a common path which can be taken.
In this context, both FA of Malaysia and NSC are expected to sit down and trash out the finer details so that this program is not derailed.
Without doubt the Government is serious about sports and thus their involvement.
The fact that a Sports Cabinet had been set up and chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Seri Tun Razak, himself, underlines the seriousness of the Government to see sports in general excel in the world arena.
At the Sports Cabinet meeting on Tuesday morning, several other decisions were also taken and the decision to introduce the National Coaching Scheme, was another step which takes Malaysian sports to another level.
Gone are the days when coaches were no recognized, or sports did not offer a career to athletes.
With the introduction of the Scheme, which was presented by the National Coaching Board, coaching can now become a career.
And coaches will also get the opportunity to upgrade themselves with knowledge and the more they gain, the better remunerations they will get.
And it is not just the fulltime coaches who benefit from this scheme, but also the many part-time coaches who do a lot of development work, but are more often than not recognised or remunerated.
With more qualified and satisfied coached in place, it is hoped that the overall standard of sports will rise at a fast level for the nation to attain success at the Asian and World level in the near future.
The elite training centre in Hertfordshire, near London, which is operational from yesterday (Thursday – June 22), is another milestone for Malaysian sports, where an opportunity has been created for Malaysian athletes to be based and train overseas where they will be exposed to high level training and competition.
Squash will be the first to utilise the facility and followed by the Under-20 team next in line.
Sports in the country have never had so good and if only the returns equate with the money spent, it will all be a dream come true for the nation.
Ends.
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