The Youth and Sports Ministry will meet the Terengganu Gymnastics Association (PGNT) to find a solution to the issue of women gymnasts asked to compete in wushu in next year’s Malaysia Games (Sukma).
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said the meeting is to discuss the best option for gymnasts in the state.
This is because the PAS-led state government remains adamant about barring gymnasts from taking part in gymnastics during Sukma.
“I have contacted PGNT president Abdul Razak Mat Amin to see how we can assist in resolving the issue through the National Sports Council (NSC).
“We want to see youths involved in whatever sports they want to and dress codes should not be a stumbling block,” she said after opening the Petrina Cup Gymnastics Championships to be held at the Titiwangsa Stadium from Oct 15.
The Terengganu government came up with the controversial Entertainment, Cultural Performances, Tourism, and Sports guidelines in March 2020.
The guidelines recommended what Muslim and non-Muslim athletes and performers should and should not wear.
Following the restriction, Terengganu will not compete in gymnastics during the 2024 Sukma hosted by Sarawak.
Speaking of the Petrina Cup, which is being held in Malaysia for the first time, Yeoh said the event has attracted participation from 10 countries and will feature about 600 participants.
Participating countries include Azerbaijan, China, Egypt, Japan, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Yeoh said the post of NSC director-general, which fell vacant after the retirement of Ahmad Shapawi Ismail, will be filled soon.
“We hope to get the appointment done as soon as possible by the end of this month or next month,” she said.
Ahmad Shapawi retired on Sept 28, after serving the council for 35 years.
- Bernama
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