KUALA LUMPUR: With Malaysia still striving for their first Olympic gold medal, sports like climbing, skateboarding, and surfing could offer new hope to end the wait.
The National Sports Council (NSC) is shifting focus to these non-traditional Olympic sports, aiming to identify promising athletes in collaboration with their respective associations.
NSC deputy director-general Jefri Ngadirin revealed that the council plans to establish structured programmes to nurture athletes who could reach the Olympic podium in these new sports.
"We've met with some of the associations, and the potential looks promising. We already have athletes capable of advancing to a higher level," said Jefri after chairing the Masters Games Carnival at the NSC in Bukit Jalil today.
"Our skateboarders recently did well in a competition in Japan. Currently, their world rankings are around 200, but we aim to help improve those standings.
"The target is for Malaysian climbers, skateboarders and surfers to qualify for the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games."
On the inaugural Masters Games Carnival, Jefri said the event, scheduled for Nov 21-24 in the Klang Valley, is expected to draw around 3,300 participants. Registration closes on Nov 12.
The event, organised by the Youth and Sports Ministry, features 12 sports across 51 events and 36 age-group categories.
It aligns with the Madani government's goal of promoting active and healthy lifestyles among those aged 40 and above.
Among the sports include swimming, badminton, cycling, chess, lawn bowls, archery, athletics, table tennis, sepak takraw, e-sports, pickleball and petanque.
The carnival will be held at three main locations — the Bukit Jalil Sports Complex, Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur.
Jefri encouraged participation, inviting individuals to enjoy the excitement of competition and build connections through sports.
"This is a unique chance to experience the thrill of competing like professional athletes," he added.
"The carnival will also serve as a talent-spotting opportunity for future World Masters Games."