KUALA LUMPUR: Both the National Sports Council (NSC) and the Malaysia National Cycling Federation (MNCF) have yet to receive confirmation from Azizulhasni Awang on whether he will continue to ride for the national team this year.
NSC previously disclosed that Azizulhasni had until Dec 31 to make a decision if he was to receive his Podium Programme contract at the same time as other national athletes.
NSC deputy director-general Jefri Ngadirin said Azizulhasni can still join the Podium Programme at a later date but will not receive a backdated salary.
"For the other national athletes who have already agreed to join the Podium Programme, they will receive their contracts beginning next week," said Jefri when contacted today (Jan 1).
"We have not heard anything from Datuk Azizulhasni so far. We did read in the media that he intends to meet with the Youth and Sports Minister (Hannah Yeoh) first.
"We have not received any updates from the ministry.
"He can still join the Podium Programme at a later date but will receive his contract later than the other athletes and will not receive backdated (salary).
"For example if he gives him confirmation in March, we will only issue his contract then and he won't be paid for January and February.
"If he agrees, then his contract will be reviewed for renewal annually."
Athletes under the Podium Programme, which is for elite national athletes, receive a monthly salary from NSC and also have access to training, medical and sports science facilities and services.
Azizulhasni, who turns 37 on Sunday, had in the past said he planned to retire from the national team after the Paris Olympics.
MNCF, however, is keen for the former world keirin champion to continue as they believe he remains a valuable asset to the national team.