The National Sports Council (NSC) has its sights set on the 2024 Paris Olympics, with hopes of sending over 25 athletes to compete in various events. In fact, they aim to have between 25 to 30 athletes representing Malaysia on the grand stage of the Olympics. And if things go their way, the National men’s hockey team could push that number even higher, breaking a 24-year hiatus from the Games.
It’s been a long time since Malaysia has tasted Olympic gold – a staggering six decades! The nation yearns to witness a Malaysian athlete proudly standing on the podium, adorned with gold, bringing home that long-sought victory. The hopes of clinching gold rest on sports such as badminton, track cycling, and diving.
Abdul Rashid Yaakub, the NSC director-general, firmly believes that the potential for medal victories exists. In his eyes, it’s not just about the Olympics, but about excelling in any major competition. He stresses the importance of athletes believing in themselves, being fully prepared, and equipped with all the necessary training and resources. According to Abdul Rashid, if the athletes can give their best performance – perhaps even setting a new national record or personal best – then they stand a good chance of bringing home a medal.
But it’s not only cycling, badminton, and diving that could bring home the glory. Precision sports like shooting and archery might just spring a surprise or two. The objective is crystal clear: to secure the first gold medal for Malaysia in Paris this year.
The NSC is wholeheartedly committed to providing unwavering support to the athletes who have qualified through merit or have the potential to qualify under the Podium Programme and Road to Gold (RTG). This support encompasses sports science, coaching, consultation, and counselling.
In terms of financial support, the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) is confident that there won’t be any issues, thanks to a special allocation of RM20 million announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for the RTG during the 2024 Budget. This funding will play a crucial role in providing support services to the national contingent, ensuring they have everything they need to pursue the gold medal.
A number of athletes, including Nur Shazrin Latif, Johnathan Wong, Bertrand Rhodict Lises, Ariana Nur Dania Zairi, and Nur Aisyah Mohd Zubir, have already secured their places in Paris 2024 based on merit. As for the hockey squad, their fate will be determined during the upcoming Qualifiers in Muscat, Oman. Other sports like track cycling, badminton, and diving still have until April or May to secure their spots in the Olympics.
After clinching a silver and a bronze during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Malaysia is gearing up for an even more successful run in Paris. The excitement is tangible as the country eagerly awaits the chance to shine on the world stage once again. The dreams are grand, and the hopes are soaring. It’s an exhilarating journey to witness as these Malaysian athletes set their sights on Olympic glory!
