2 days ago
Malaysia Athletics brings in former stars to advise national squad
KUALA LUMPUR: Former SEA Games champion G. Shanti is among four ex-national athletes appointed by Malaysia Athletics (MA) to help safeguard the current squad and serve as advisors.
Joining Shanti are Datuk Zaiton Osman, Roslinda Samsu and Zaidatul Husna Zulkifli.
Three former government officers — Datuk Seri Harjeet Singh, Datuk Salim Parlan and Datuk Padman Bhaskaran — have also been brought in as part of the new advisory structure.
Zaidatul Husna will also serve as the new general manager, replacing Norhayati Karim, who has been promoted to secretary-general.
MA president Datuk Karim Ibrahim said the national body is taking a fresh approach by integrating experienced former athletes and civil servants into its think tank.
"These individuals will act as advisors and provide a safeguard mechanism for the team," said Karim.
"If anyone has issues, they can turn to these former athletes. We're following World Athletics' safeguarding model."
The move comes after reports that some team members had previously felt threatened by officials and were unhappy with certain coaching setups.
Karim also confirmed the appointment of Manshahar Abdul Jalil as the new national chief coach.
His role will run until the Thailand SEA Games in December.
"Although Manshahar began work two weeks ago, his appointment will be formally endorsed tomorrow following a working committee meeting with the National Sports Council (NSC). He will be under NSC's payroll," said Karim.
So far, nearly 40 have qualified for the Games, and preparations are said to be 70 per cent complete.
"The aim is to get them to peak condition in time for the mission," added Karim.
He also announced that the Malaysian Open will be held in Kangar from Aug 29-31, with Chaya Mata returning as the main sponsor.
