KUALA LUMPUR: With the implementation of the Minimum Qualification Score (MQS), only the best divers will represent Malaysia in major championships, including the Olympics, after the Paris Games.
The MQS system will ensure that only those who truly deserve to be selected will make the cut. This means that even if a Malaysian diver earns an Olympic spot, they may not automatically represent the country.
Olympian Bryan Nickson Lomas, the technical director of the national diving team, confirmed that the selection of athletes for the world's biggest sporting event will now be determined through this MQS system.
He explained that the approach has already been agreed upon by all parties, including the National Sports Council (NSC), athletes, and coaches.
"From now on, those who have qualified for the Olympics will not automatically represent the country. Instead, they will need to compete for their spot.
"Everyone must go through an internal selection process, meeting the set MQS," said Bryan.
When asked if this approach might cause dissatisfaction among athletes, Bryan said it is necessary to ensure the national divers give their best effort in every competition.
"I am aware that some may feel this is unfair, but this is how countries like China, the United States, and Britain operate.
"We are doing this to ensure we send the best athletes.
"We noticed that athletes become too comfortable after securing their Olympic spots.
"Therefore, we are implementing this approach to raise the level of competition," he said.
Bryan added that the first national selection session will be held in September as part of the process to shortlist athletes for next year's World Championships and World Junior Championships.
"If no athlete manages to meet the set MQS, we will not send anyone. The same applies to other international competitions," he said.
The national diving squad's campaign at the Paris Olympic Games ended on Friday when female diver Nur Dhabitah Sabri finished last in the final of the 3m springboard event.
Compatriot Bertrand Rhodict Lises failed to qualify for the semi-finals in the men's 10m platform.
Commenting on the performances of Nur Dhabitah and Bertrand, Bryan admitted there is much "homework" to be done to improve the quality of the national diving team.
"For me, this is a reality we must accept. We need to work even harder, and on our part, we will continue to support the athletes to boost their performance," he added.