Honouring Olympians Inspires Young Athletes, Says 'Flying Doctor' Jegathesan

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 (Bernama) -- National athletics icon Tan Sri Dr M. Jegathesan said events that honour former Olympians not only provide a platform to recognise their invaluable contributions to the nation but also play a vital role in inspiring the younger generation of athletes.

Speaking at a Christmas luncheon organised by the Royal Selangor Club (RSC) Darts Section in honour of Olympians, Dr Jegathesan said such occasions remain deeply meaningful despite the passage of time, as they allow former athletes to reconnect with their sporting journeys.

“I think all of us are very happy to be here today, especially those of us who were specially mentioned — the past Olympians. We have a table of Olympians here, and we are very happy that people are still recognising us even after so many years have passed.

“And we hope that this will be an inspiration for our younger generations because they can then look forward to competing,” Dr Jegathesan, nicknamed ‘The Flying Doctor’ for his exploits on the track, told Bernama here today.

He also emphasised the importance of competing at the international level, noting that such experiences play a significant role in shaping national pride, discipline and character among athletes.

“Participating at a high level in sports teaches you a lot about dedication, discipline and the pride of representing your country.

“Can you imagine the pride we feel when we stand on the rostrum and the Negaraku is played? Only those who have experienced it can truly understand how proud they feel when they are standing there and the whole country is standing with them,” he said.

“And can you imagine the pride that we feel when we stand on a podium and they actually play the Negaraku? Only those who have experienced it can tell you how proud they feel when they’re standing up there and the whole country is standing up with you,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Olympians Association (MOA) president Noraseela Mohd Khalid expressed her appreciation to organisations that continue to honour Olympians and acknowledge their enduring contributions to national sports.

She said former Olympians remain ready and willing to play an active role in supporting the development of sports in the country.

“We are truly proud and appreciative of any party that continues to remember Olympians. We are deeply touched that there are still those who value and recognise our contributions.

“Those of us who are still in Malaysia remain ready and willing. I hope relevant parties, especially sports associations, the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS), the National Sports Council (MSN) and others, will reach out to us, because we genuinely want to contribute,” she said.

RSC president Rizal Edi Effendi Sahbudin said the luncheon reflected the club’s long-standing commitment to sports development and nation-building.

-- BERNAMA