All eyes will now be on the Finance Ministry after its minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz was enlightened on the plight of the sports industry which has been badly hit by Covid-19.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican met Tengku Zafrul at Wisma KBS earlier today as they discussed initiatives to restart the economy for stakeholders.
“Specific attention will be given to the development of the sports industry that has the potential to create new wealth and how youths can be the enablers and drivers,” said Reezal.
“Attention will also be given to the development of sports, especially at the grassroots, including talent identification that requires the commitment of all parties.”
The Youth and Sports Ministry had presented an economic paper on youths and comprising seven strategies, including creation of new jobs, upskilling, reskilling and cross-skilling opportunities and access to funds and facilities.
“My ministry hopes these initiatives will be given attention by the Finance Ministry as these efforts will help young entrepreneurs and the sports community to restart the nation’s economy.
“We are open to suggestions to ensure the welfare of youth and sports are protected,” he added.
The sports industry – from gym operators, badminton centres to personal trainers – have been severely affected after the pandemic forced the government to impose the Movement Control Order on March 18.
Veteran sports administrator Datuk Sieh Kok Chi had on May 4 told Twentytwo13 that private trainers are “victims” of Covid-19 and that they should find new ways to render their services.
A day later, this website ran the plight of a gym owner.
Following the Twentytwo13 articles, Reezal confirmed efforts are being made to address the plight of private trainers and gym operators.
On May 23, Twentytwo13 editor Haresh Deol urged the government, especially the Finance Ministry, to embrace the billion ringgit sports industry to reap benefits.
A day later, Olympic Council of Malaysia president Datuk Seri Mohamad Norza Zakaria, had on ‘The RSS with HD’ talk show, revealed that Reezal’s ministry was gathering information and engaging with other ministries, especially the Finance Ministry, to come up with some sort of stimulus package for the sports industry.
