The Japanese government may extend the state of emergency in Tokyo and other major urban areas, but Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria is confident it would not affect the staging of the 32nd Olympics.
Tokyo will host the Games from July 23-Aug 8.
“I have seen the updated playbook by the International Olympic Council and the Japanese Olympic Committee. It looks like the Games would be detached from the public,” said Norza.
“They have taken into account worst-case scenarios and the action needed to overcome them.
“The athletes and officials would be kept in a ‘sports bubble’ which, to be honest, feels more like a prison.
“Their movements are restricted. They can’t even go to the nearest shop.
“There will also be daily testing for athletes and those in close proximity to competitors.”
While satisfied with the measures the organisers are taking, Norza has a separate fear.
He said the Games would be a test of character for many, and mental strength would be important.
“Athletes, in general, have good mental strength, but we are in unprecedented times. We need to keep the athletes safe in a bubble even before they leave for Tokyo,” said Norza.
“This means many would be away from their families for a very long time. They would be quarantined in camp, then in Japan, and after they come back.
“It won’t be easy. Also, Covid-19 can strike anytime and anywhere.
“As we have seen for nearly 15 months, some athletes take longer to acclimatise while for others, it is easier.
“Look at (diver) Cheong Jun Hoong. She had not competed for nearly three years after suffering from injuries, but in her first event back, she qualified for the Olympics.
“It is going to be a major test of character for everyone involved.”
He added OCM contemplated chartering flights to transport the athletes to Japan, but not everyone has the same schedule or time table.
“There is an element of risk on commercial flights as someone may be a carrier.
“We have to ascertain with military precision how to keep everyone safe,” he added.