Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim lauded Malaysia’s performance at the Thailand SEA Games, highlighting the vital role of sports in fostering national unity.
He stressed the importance of bringing people together across races, regions, and backgrounds in a spirit of shared pride.
“This is the true strength of Malaysia that must continue to be nurtured and strengthened,” he said in a Facebook post.
Anwar noted that the country’s success at the SEA Games should inspire even stronger preparations for future major sporting events, ensuring Malaysia remains competitive and respected both regionally and internationally.
He also extended his congratulations and appreciation to all athletes, coaches, and team officials for their dedication, sacrifices, and fighting spirit.
“This success is the result of high discipline, continuous sacrifices, and the unwavering fighting spirit of our athletes, coaches, and team officials in bringing honour to the nation on the regional stage,” he added.
The prime minister further emphasised that preparations for Malaysia’s hosting of the 2027 SEA Games will be conducted comprehensively, systematically, and competently, not only in infrastructure and organisation but also in developing a sustainable sports ecosystem and nurturing world-class talent.
The 2025 SEA Games, which concluded on Dec 20, saw Malaysia finish fourth with 57 gold, 57 silver, and 117 bronze medals, while host Thailand led the medal table with 233 gold, 154 silver, and 112 bronze medals.
Badminton legend receives special contribution
In a related development, Bernama reported that the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has presented a special contribution to national badminton legend Sylvia Ng as a mark of respect and appreciation for her service and legacy in the development of Malaysian badminton.
BAM president Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz said that this extraordinary contribution was presented to recognise her as a two-time National Sportswoman of the Year (1975 and 1978), further cementing her position as a national sports icon.
Zafrul noted that Ng made history as the first Asian woman to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal in badminton singles, as well as the first Malaysian female athlete to secure a Commonwealth gold medal at the 1978 Edmonton Games in Canada.
He added that he and BAM welfare committee chairperson Ng Chin Chai were honoured to visit and exchange stories with the legend, whom he described as one of the pioneers of Malaysian women’s badminton success.
“May Ng’s legacy continue to inspire the younger generation to value history, respect pioneers, and continue the struggle to bring glory to Malaysia. Legacy is not measured by medals alone, but by the path cleared for the next generation,” he said.
Zafrul clarified that the visit was made in light of media reports regarding issues with National Sportsman and Sportswoman rewards that went unreceived by several athletes from various sports, including for the years 1975 and 1978.
“While the matter falls outside the jurisdiction of BAM, the association has stepped forward to present this special contribution as a sign of recognition for Ng’s service and legacy to national sports,” he said. - Mkini
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