Tears of joy trickled down Ng Joo Pong’s face as he accepted a gift from Malaysia Olympians Association (MOA) president Noraseela Khalid.
The cycling maestro, who represented Malaysia at the 1964 Tokyo and 1968 Mexico City Olympics, was touched when Noraseela, accompanied by former Sportswoman of the Year Datuk Zaiton Othman, presented him with an Olympic pin and a certificate allowing Olympians to use the initials OLY after their names.
The post-nominal title, similar to a PhD or MD, recognises Olympians for their dedication and achievements.
Now 80, Joo Pong suffered a second stroke six years ago, leaving him physically weakened. Though bedridden, his mind remains sharp. He immediately recognised Zaiton and held her hands as they reminisced about the old days.
“The Mexico Olympics were great. I remember drinking Nescafe when I was there,” he joked when met at his home in Shah Alam today. “I met some interesting people … and some pretty athletes,” he added cheekily, referring to a photo of him with a foreign athlete.
Joo Pong’s younger brother, Datuk Ng Joo Ngan – one of Malaysia’s most decorated cyclists – said: “If it wasn’t for my brother, I wouldn’t have taken up cycling. He was a true pioneer who paved the way for many of us.”
He added: “Joo Pong could sit up and use a wheelchair until recently, but now he’s unable to do so. He remembers many moments from his life and misses his friends. I can see how much this visit means to him.”
Besides Joo Pong, Noraseela and Zaiton also visited former sprinter Junaidah Aman at her home in Serendah, Hulu Selangor, to present her with the Olympic pin and certificate, marking another meaningful moment during their visits.
An appeal for help
Noraseela said paying homage to the two former athletes was timely and urged the private sector to do more to honour Malaysia’s sporting pioneers.
“They are both advancing in years, and this gesture was to thank them for their sacrifice and to tell them that we have not forgotten them,” said Noraseela, who competed in the 400m hurdles at the 2012 London Olympics.
“They have received some assistance from the government, either through Yakeb (National Athlete Welfare Foundation) or other channels, but there’s only so much the government can do to help former athletes.”
She expressed hope that the private sector would step up to support retired sportsmen and women.
“Everyone celebrates an athlete when they’re competing, but once they retire, many are forgotten,” said Noraseela. “None of them wants a handout. These athletes dedicated their lives and sacrificed so much to bring honour to the country – maybe it’s time we find a way to honour them properly.”
Recently, two-time Sportswoman of the Year Lisa Kwan received a new lease of life when she was hired by Best Archery Centre in Glo Damansara. The archery queen is now a mentor at the centre.
The same centre had previously helped former national No. 1 squash player Kenneth Low get back on his feet in 2023.
Noraseela said MOA remains committed to organising more events and initiatives to celebrate those who have dedicated their lives to sport – but such efforts can only succeed with broad-based support.
“Hopefully, we can find more ways to honour our Olympians and other former athletes who made Malaysia proud with their exploits,” said Noraseela.
Main image: Joo Pong (in bed), reminisces with Zaiton while Noraseela and Joo Ngan look on.
