Concerns Over Former Athletes "Lured" Abroad
A Worrying Trend in the Sports Industry
YOUTH and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has expressed concern over the increasing instances of former national athletes being "lured" to offer their services in other countries. Despite being disappointed with the situation, she did not rule out the possibility that this could be due to the failure to fully implement attractive salary schemes for coaches.
A Need for Attractive Salary Schemes
Hannah highlighted that there is a need for support from corporate firms to further improve offers for coaching athletes in the country. She emphasized that the salary scheme in Malaysia must be attractive to lure back former athletes who have left for other countries.
The Impact on the Sports Industry
The situation is extremely worrying, and if not comprehensively addressed, could cast doubts on the ability of the domestic sports industry to remain competitive. Hannah used the example of squash, where China is stepping up its efforts to shine in the sport, and former national squash player Ong Beng Hee has already left for China.
Consequences of Not Addressing the Issue
If left unchecked, this trend could have severe consequences for the sports industry in Malaysia. Hannah emphasized that sports is a highly competitive industry, and other countries are investing heavily in sports. To remain competitive, Malaysia must also invest in its sports industry.
Former Athletes Who Have Left for Abroad
Several former athletes have already left to ply their trade as coaches abroad, including former national diver Wendy Ng Yan Yee, who was recently appointed as a talent development coach under Singapore Aquatics for their diving team. Other notable athletes who have left include former shuttlers Wong Choong Han, Tan Bin Shen, and Jeremy Gan.
Conclusion
The exodus of former athletes to other countries is a worrying trend that requires immediate attention. To address this issue, the government, corporate firms, and sports associations must work together to attract and retain top coaches and athletes. By providing attractive salary schemes and a supportive environment, Malaysia can remain competitive in the global sports industry.
FAQs
Q: Why are former athletes leaving Malaysia to coach abroad?
A: Former athletes are leaving due to attractive salary schemes and better opportunities in other countries.
Q: What is the impact of this trend on the sports industry in Malaysia?
A: If left unchecked, this trend could cast doubts on the ability of the domestic sports industry to remain competitive.
Q: What can be done to address this issue?
A: The government, corporate firms, and sports associations must work together to provide attractive salary schemes and a supportive environment to attract and retain top coaches and athletes.