KUALA LUMPUR: Former National Sports Council (NSC) director-general Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail has entered the race for the Malaysia Paralympic Council (MPC) presidency, aiming to unseat incumbent Datuk Seri Megat Shahriman Zaharudin in the elections on Dec 14.
Shapawi, whose candidacy is backed by the BA of Malaysia (BAM) and the Malaysian Canoe Association (MASCA), is campaigning on a platform of change and better governance at the MPC.
The 62-year-old, who retired last year after nearly four decades in sports administration, stressed the need for unity and transparency in the council's decision-making.
"I'm not contesting for personal ambition but as part of a team committed to bringing changes to the MPC," said Shapawi in a statement today.
"Many affiliates are not satisfied with the current processes, which seem to favour individual interests over teamwork. Decisions often fail to reflect the collective stance of affiliates."
If elected, Shapawi plans to revamp MPC's governance framework, fostering collaboration and strengthening ties with government agencies, including the Youth and Sports Ministry, to further improve programmes for para athletes.
Timesport has reached out to Shahriman for comment.