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Gender should not matter in mission to strengthen Malaysian sports

The role of women in Malaysian sports cannot be denied.

Unfortunately, many tend to overlook the responsibilities played by women in the local sports ecosystem. Women perform many roles – from coaches, referees, to physiotherapists, and gymnasium owners.

Ex-national shuttler Daphne Ng is now coaching at her academy, as she is determined to unearth a new gem in the sport. Decorated referee Rita Ghani once represented Asia at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

There are former athletes who now occupy positions within sports agencies and associations.

Twentytwo13 editor, Haresh Deol, in his latest column in Malay-language news website Getaran, wrote that more women in the scene would naturally see more conversations about safe spaces. This, he said, was important to ensure that every girl and woman could participate in a safe, and non-judgemental environment.

“A healthy atmosphere will also help develop more athletes and sports officials,” wrote Haresh.

“Such initiatives start from the grassroots.

“The FA of Selangor, for example, will be organising a grassroots coaching course, exclusively for women. This will take place on Nov 27-28 at the FAS Training Centre in Shah Alam.”

He hoped that through such courses, more coaches would be developed, ultimately creating a positive impact in the development of football, starting from the base.

“But here’s a challenge to sports associations. Such courses should be open to all, regardless of gender, or age.

“In this era of equality and professionalism, a coach or an official should not be judged by their gender or age, but through their work ethics and capabilities.

“Any preconceived notions about a woman must be erased. If a woman is capable of managing a state football team, or even the Harimau Malaya, she should be given the opportunity to do so.”

He added gender should not be used as a yardstick in the mission to strengthen football and Malaysian sports.

Read the full article on www.getaran.my.