KUALA LUMPUR: Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman wants a local to head the Podium Programme following the resignation of its director Tim Newenham on Wednesday.
He believes there are many locals who are qualified to take up the job and introduce initiatives that will ensure Malaysia win their first Olympic gold medal at the 2020 Olympics.
“What is important is the individual’s capability. I was informed that Malaysia has many qualified individuals in sports who have experiences in managing a successful programme.
“The processes in appointing the new director will be transparent. I will get feedback during the two hall sessions with the National Sports Council (NSC), National Sports Institute (NSI), Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and the National Sports Associations (NSA).
“I thank Newenham for his services and contributions to the programme,” said Syed Saddiq at the Astro Youth Badminton Championships press conference in Bukit Kiara on Wednesday.
Syed Saddiq said the programme will be reviewed to ensure all funds are channeled accordingly to athletes.
“Based on the programme’s financial reports, I feel the funding is high. For example, only RM40-50 million were used on athletes from the RM70 million funding.
“Some funds were spent on contract staff with majority being foreigners, so I believe this programme should be reviewed,” he added.