Khairy: We aim for a top 10 finish in Gold Coast

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia are aiming for nothing less than a top 10 finish in the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia.

Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin expressed confidence that the contingent led by Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) president Huang Ying How will be able to surpass the previous performance at the 2014 edition in Glasgow, Scotland.

Malaysian took home six golds, seven silvers and six bronzes for 12th spot in the overall medals tally.

It was the first time in 16 years Malaysia fell out of the top 10 ranking at the Games.

“I believe our contingent will be able to achieve a better outing compared to Glasgow.

“I’m confident the hosts will ensure the Games runs smoothly without any problem,” said Khairy, who welcomed the Queen’s Baton Relay Run delegation at the Youth and Sports Ministry in Putrajaya yesterday.

About 300 participants, including former Malaysian medallists at the Commonwealth Games, took part in the Queen’s Baton Relay Run at Bukit Jalil on Tuesday.

The Commonwealth Games next year (April 4-15) will see the para athletes competing alongside their able-bodied counterparts in 38 medal events across seven sports. The medals won by the para athletes will be included in the country’s overall tally

The sports are athletics, swimming, lawn bowls, powerlifting, track cycling, table tennis and triathlon.