KUALA LUMPUR – Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has urged all national sports associations (NSAs) involved in the Paris Olympics next week to heed the advice of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim to send only essential officials to the world’s largest sporting event.
Malaysia’s contingent for Paris comprises 26 athletes from 10 different sports, accompanied by around 40 sports officials.
As one of the smallest contingents at the Games, the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) has been allocated a limited number of accreditation cards – only 24 – that provide access to the Olympic Village and competition venues.
These accreditation cards are transferable, and OCM will manage them based on each athlete’s competition schedule to ensure smooth coordination.
However, several sports associations are still applying to the OCM to increase the number of officials accompanying their athletes to Paris.
Additionally, some sports associations are opting to send technical officials instead of coaches.
Hannah explained that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong addressed this matter during an audience with the Malaysian contingent at the National Palace on July 2.
“I feel this issue, even our King…spoke to us about (this) during our audience with His Majesty at the flag-handling ceremony for the Malaysian contingent.
“Accreditations are given by the OCM, and only the National Sports Institute and National Sports Council personnel on duty will attend.
“I believe for other passes issued to associations, they should determine who should go to assist their respective athletes.
“The utmost support for these athletes should be the priority,” said Hannah.
The final list of the Malaysian contingent, including accompanying officials, will be finalised by OCM on July 18. – July 17, 2024