KUALA LUMPUR: Their days of competing for the country may be over, but they have not been forgotten.
Ten national athletes and former stars received a Deepavali boost from 100PLUS, the National Sports Council (NSC) and the National Athletes’ Welfare Foundation (Yakeb), ahead of tomorrow’s Festival of Lights.
The contribution went to four active athletes and six retired stars, recognising their sacrifices and contributions to Malaysian sport.
For former athletes, the gesture carried special meaning, particularly for those who have been away from competitive sport for years.
R. Rajendran, who represented Malaysia in kabaddi at the 2002 Busan Asian Games, said it was heartening to know that the sporting fraternity had not forgotten them.
“I am proud that Yakeb and NSC still remember us as former athletes. They still care and help us through contributions like this,” he said.
“I am very happy that we are not forgotten even though we left competitive sports a long time ago.”
The active recipients included para-taekwondo exponents A, Kirthan Raj, N. Devaosrichalam and Orson Jothi, alongside para-athlete V. Jyayahmurugan.
The six former athletes included Rajendran and former competitors in taekwondo, karate, athletics and cricket.
NSC director-general Arrifin Ghani said the contribution was part of continued efforts by the council, 100PLUS and Yakeb to stay connected with athletes during major religious celebrations.
“We hope this year’s Deepavali brings them more light and happiness. Although it is a modest contribution, we hope it brightens their celebrations with their families.”
Arrifin also extended Deepavali greetings on behalf of NSC.
The joint initiative reflects the partners’ continued efforts to recognise national athletes beyond their competitive careers and support their welfare.