Games reveal Malaysia’s weak areas
THE Asean Para Games, which came to a close yesterday, has shown the Malaysian Paralympic Council (MPC) some weaknesses that they need to iron out.
Malaysia, who had hoped to win 103 gold medals to be overall champions, could only collect 90 gold for second place.
MPC deputy president Ng Keng Chuan has urged the National Sports Council (NSC) to review some aspects especially in para swimming.
“We need to relook certain areas that we didn’t do well in like swimming.
“NSC have to take get new athletes and not let countries like Indonesia dominate.”
Keng Chuan commended the Malaysian para athletes for putting up a creditable show at the KL Asean Para Games and the biggest surprise was from the new generation of athletes.
“This time the back-up athletes have risen to the challenge and contributed gold that we didn’t expect.”
Keng Chuan, who was present at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre for the goalball final between Thailand and Malaysia, applauded the national team for achieving sweet revenge.
“It’s long awaited and after five setbacks, this is sweet revenge. At the Asean Para Games, we got the last gold, so it’s a successful and wonderful conclusion to the games.”
He said the para athletes will next start preparing for the Para Asian Games in Indonesia next year.
Keng Chuan said the Asean Para Games had also brought out the beautiful side of Malaysians.
“It is not about the number of gold but the unity of the nation and that’s what the Asean Para Games has achieved.”
After seven days, Indonesia emerged as overall winners with 126 gold, 75 silver and 50 bronze medals while Malaysia finished second with 90 gold, 85 silver and 83 bronze. Farah Azharie