Syed Saddiq is not a fan of protocols

Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (pic) wants to do away with protocols, bel i ev i n g that national athletes should be given the highest priority.

Speaking to the media following meetings with the National Sports Council (NSC), National Sports Institute (NSI) and the National Stadium Board yesterday, Syed Saddiq said he has never been a fan of protocol.

“I have never been a fan of protocols, and at times people make fun of me because of it.

“As I had mentioned in my speech earlier, I am not their (athletes) leader, but I am here working for them, and at the same time, they are my source of inspiration.

“Even before I joined politics, they were the ones I looked up to and cheered on. These are the people who have the power to unite Malaysians in ways we cannot imagine.

“If anything, I should be the one saluting them, waiting for them and not the other way around,” said Syed Saddiq in Bukit Jalil.

On the outcome of yesterday’s meetings, Syed Saddiq added that he had briefed the top management on the new sports landscape without the interference of politicians and political appointees.

The 26-year-old also wants to see more ex-athletes and experts helm National Sports Associations (NSAs) and other sportsrelated bodies.

Syed Saddiq also touched on improving grassroots development by introducing a policy together with the Education Ministry that focuses on the importance of physical education in schools.

“From the discussion, I have made it clear that we will all work together for the greater good of Malaysian sports. They have shared some of their struggles and I had explained to them that I will assist in any way possible,” he added.