KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian gymnastics fraternity lost a much-celebrated administrator after N. Shanmugarajah passed away today. He was 73.
Following years of struggle with ill heath, the sports luminary finally succumbed to pneumonia sometime this evening.
Amid news of his death, tributes began pouring in from several high-profile individuals, including, Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria, who shared his condolences.
“I am very sad to hear of his passing.
“He gave his life to gymnastics, working tirelessly for many years to promote the sport,” he told The Vibes.
Norza further praised Shanmugarajah for his services to Malaysian gymnastics when he was the secretary of the Malaysian Gymnastics Federation (MGF) for 38 years.
“He was truly a diligent and honest sports administrator.
“He will be missed by the sports fraternity, especially from the gymnastics community.
“May his soul rest in peace,” Norza added.
After his role as MGF secretary, Shanmugarajah was appointed as advisor to the national gymnastics team.
He was chosen for his experience and knowledge of the sport, as well as the connections he had with international gymnastics bodies.
Unfortunately, he had to step away from the scene due to his declining health condition.
Shanmugarajah had been highly proactive since the sport began in 1978.
He helped pave the way for the sport to take off during the 1992 Olympics, when rhythmic gymnastics was first introduced.
For those who wish to pay their final respects to Shanmugarajah, they can attend a prayer session held at No. 11, Jalan Timah, Taman Eden in Ipoh on April 30 (Saturday).
The prayer will be held starting from 9am followed by the cremation process in Buntong later in the afternoon. – The Vibes, April 29, 2022
