I FOLLOW with interest the ongoing debate on how we fared in the recently concluded SEA Games in Cambodia.
Of course, we failed to improve our standings and performed badly in the sporting disciplines that we should have won.
The problem is nothing new as our standards have been in decline, with no serious thought being channelled into sports as an important part of nation building.
We have to accept the fact that the decline through several decades is due to several factors.
Firstly, let’s start with sports in schools. The level to which it has deteriorated simply because of the lack of emphasis in nurturing and encouraging sports at this level.
It is currently being done simply because it is a directive from the ministry and not for the love of it.
One example would be the “merentas desa”, a short cross-country run which the schools are forced to do simply because the ministry wants it done.
Competitiveness for such an event is neither encouraged nor is talent scouting conducted.
Secondly, race and religion is subversively being brought into the equation, which has impacted the development and enhancement of the sport.
As a result, our athletes are not being looked after when their careers eventually end.
To them, there is practically no future, which leads to a loss of interest and ultimately does not produce results.
The fact is that race and religion has no place in sports. Instead, we should recognise talent and reward these individuals appropriately.
Truthfully, physical education is a joke in schools these days, and is not taken seriously as we lack incentives and trained teachers .
The only way forward is to stop blaming one another, but to work together for a brighter and successful future for sports in Malaysia. – The Vibes, May 31, 2023
Datuk Dr Xavier Jayakumar is a former Kuala Langat MP
