M-League’s return imminent, says Reezal
The return of the M-League looks imminent now, thanks to Malaysia’s success in containing the Covid-19 pandemic.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said the league’s return would be among the topics discussed during a meeting tomorrow.
“The meeting, to be chaired by Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, will decide on the opening of various sectors including economy, social, recreational, religious, and even sports,” said Reezal after a visit to the Larkin Arena Aquatic Centre here.
He stressed the decision on whether to resume the M-League and other contact sports would depend on the National Security Council (NSC).
“However, everything looks so positive and I hope the number of
Covid-19 cases continues to go down.
“Malaysians are very disciplined and have flattened the curve, so I see a very high confidence from the rakyat and the government in allowing sports such as football,” he added.
On another matter, Reezal said the ministry was not concerned over the state’s preparation for Sukma (Malaysia Games) as many facilities and venues were almost complete.
“The construction work at venues and facilities for Sukma Johor is between 95% and 97% complete. Here, at the aquatic centre, only the warm-up pool is left.
“I am not worried at all. I am optimistic all preparations will be ready as early as four to five months before Sukma starts,” he added.
Asked if Sukma would still be held in March next year, Reezal said the matter would be discussed during the Sukma committee
I see a very high confidence from the rakyat and the government in allowing sports such as football.
Datuk Seri Reezal Merican
meeting soon.
“The meeting was scheduled for October but I’ve been told that it has been moved forward following the preparations made by the Johor government and the Sukma secretariat,” he added.
The 20th edition of Sukma, hosted by Johor, had been scheduled to start on Saturday until July 29 but was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Datuk Seri Reezal Merican posing with the Sukma Johor mascot Jimi the Tiger yesterday. — THOMAS YONG/The Star