THE reaction was one of delight and hope as national sports associations
(NSAs) applauded Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's
determination to make sports in schools a priority again.
Most, if not all, NSAs can claim that part of the reason for their
non-performance is due to the exam-oriented schools structure but with
Muhyiddin - who is also Education Minister - in their corner, they are
hopeful of a change.
"IT is the most important step towards developing sport in any country.
For us, it will be an answer to our prayers.
After trying for so many years to establish cycling as part of the MSSM
calendar, this is something we will accept with open arms.
Sport is also element that fuels that patriotic desire within all of
us, and by making it a priority in schools, it helps with nation
building."
Datuk Naim Mohamad
Malaysian National Cycling Federation deputy president
"I TOTALLY endorse and support this effort as it is in sync with what I
have been saying and trying to make happen for the last 10 years. Schools
are where athletes are found and developed into world-class level."
Datuk A. Sani Karim
Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia president
"THIS move is long overdue. The structure of sports in schools is not
up to the mark. Nowadays there aren't school tournaments, only carnivals
and festivals, and this is not the way to develop sports."
Datuk Dr S. S. Cheema
Malaysian Hockey Federation vice-president
"AN excellent start, but it will not take off if there is no
co-operation and understanding with the national sports associations,
Olympic Council of Malaysia and the Sports Ministry.
They (Education Ministry) cannot do it alone, and need partners who
have the expertise to deal with sports.
The OCM would like to see the facilities in schools fully utilised,
even during weekends, and not just hold carnivals to complete fixtures.
And the other important factor is to pay good allowances to sports
teachers so that they will forget about teaching tuition after school,
and instead be on the field for longer periods, and also during weekends.
The concept should not be only to produce elite athletes, but sports
for all when schooling."
Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja'afar
Olympic Council of Malaysia president
"IT'S a good move because it is easier to develop while athletes are
still young. For karate, the exponents mature as they get older so once
they have reached a certain age, it becomes difficult to develop their
talent."
Clement Soo
Malaysian Karate Federation honorary secretary
