Russian Expertise Set To Elevate National Divers To Higher Level

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 6 (Bernama) -- Two Russian coaches are set to be appointed to help strengthen the national diving squad.

National Sports Council (NSC) director-general Jefry Ngadirin said that apart from the two Russians, whose appointment will be announced soon, two more local coaches will also be roped in.

He said further details will be announced after the Diving Working Committee meeting scheduled for the end of this month.

"This is our long-term project to launch a sustainable coaching lineup for our divers to continue to compete at the highest level,” he said when met at the National Sports Incentive Scheme (SHAKAM) for the 2025 SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games here last night.

Previously, the media reported that Malaysia Aquatics (MAS) did not renew the contracts of two diving coaches from China - Li Jun Bai and Li Jun Song - after they failed to meet the stipulated Key Performance Index (KPI).

At the same time, Jefri does not expect major changes to the national coaching lineup since the assessment process was completed last year, together with the National Coaching Academy.  

"With the SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games now over, we are left with continuing (our training sessions) with coaches who will do their best.

"Coaches who do not do so know that they each have to meet the KPI set out in their contracts and they need to deliver the goods during the SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games,” he said.

Meanwhile, ahead of the 2026 Asian Games and Asian Para Games to be held in Japan from September, Jefti said the training programme with a select group of coaches began last year, and these coaches will continue with their task until the Games.

-- BERNAMA