Covid cases in Games Village a cause for concern

SPORTS Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican has admitted he is concerned about the latest new Covid-19 cases at the Tokyo Olympics.

Reezal, who will leave for Tokyo on Sunday, said the Malaysian contingent secretariat was monitoring the situation and will act accordingly.

“I’m aware a number of incidents have occurred at the Games Village,” said Reezal yesterday.

“Of course, those who test positive have to be quarantined, but what is also worrying is that whoever has been in close contact with a Covid-19 positive person, also has to be quarantined.

“Our secretariat, which is led by Datuk Nazifuddin Najib (OCM secretary-general), is already there, and we are monitoring the situation.

“The National Sports Council and National Sports Institute are also closely monitoring our athletes.

“I have asked for the counter measures for our athletes to be doubled up.

“At the moment, 22 of our athletes are in Japan, another two, golfers Gavin Green and Kelly Tan, will reach in another two days (Wednesday) while the rest will leave together with me (Sunday).”

Malaysia are represented by a total of 30 athletes (in 10 sports) in Tokyo.

Meanwhile, the British Olympic Association disclosed on Sunday that eight members of their contingent — six athletes and two staff — are undergoing self isolation in their rooms after coming into close contact with a Covid-19 positive person during their flight to Tokyo.

Two South African footballers were the first athletes at the Games Village to test positive for the virus on Sunday.