Sports commissioner receives Datukship for a lifetime of leadership
PETALING JAYA : Malaysia's sports commissioner, Suhardi Alias, was today conferred the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri (DSPN) by the Penang governor, an award that carries the title 'Datuk.'
The honour was presented in conjunction with the 84th birthday celebration of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Ramli Ngah Talib.
Suhardi described the award as a proud and deeply meaningful moment in his long public service career.
'I am truly honoured by this recognition,' said.the former student of St Mark's School in Perai. 'This award isn't just for me. It's for all who work tirelessly to strengthen Malaysian sports.
'It motivates us to continue improving how we serve the public and support athletes.'
Suhardi added that the award would act as a 'catalyst' for pushing reforms in governance and better administration across Malaysia's sports landscape.
Suhardi's roots in Penang sports run deep. He played a key role during the 2001 SEA Games, where he served as the head of the Penang technical secretariat overseeing four events: bowling, squash, wushu, and judo.
That year, Malaysia emerged overall champions for the first time with a historic 111 gold medals.
He also worked closely with the Penang government and national sports council (NSC) to evaluate and improve the rating system for state and national sports bodies seeking administrative support.
With nearly 35 years in the ministry of youth and sports, Suhardi has contributed to some of the country's most important sports frameworks.
He helped craft the national sports vision 2030, the sports industry roadmap, and was behind the first national-level sports management and sports science courses, which he continues to teach.
Suhardi also served as NSC deputy director-general (strategic) and was part of the NSC's rating committee with the Olympic Council of Malaysia in 2009.
He also chaired the NSC anti-corruption committee and has been part of initiatives with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, Interpol and the Olympic movement.
Since being appointed Sports Commissioner in August 2023, Suhardi has overseen the expansion of recognised sports under the Sports Development Act 1997 from 39 to 103, covering traditional, modern, and digital disciplines.
'We welcome new sports. They open doors for more youth to participate and excel. This is how we grow the industry and the ecosystem around it,' he said.
Last year, Suhardi made headlines for speaking out against Malaysia hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games, calling it 'financially risky.'
Though his remarks drew internal scrutiny, many praised his honesty and called for more leaders like him in public service.
Today's honour confirms what many in Malaysian sports already knew: Suhardi is a builder, a reformer, and a voice for responsible leadership.
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