RISE To Serve As 'Third Voice' To Check And Balance Governance, Welfare Of Athletes

KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- Reformation in Sports and Excellence (RISE) aims to serve as a 'third voice' in strengthening the check and balance process regarding governance and welfare of athletes in the country.

RISE spokesperson Hamdi Jaafar said that the initiative, led by a lineup of former national athletes, coaches, and sports officials, is a step toward systemic reform within the local sports arena.

According to Hamdi, a former national hurdler himself, the establishment of RISE was driven by growing concerns over governance issues - particularly in athletics - including leadership disputes and regulatory compliance that could risk international sanctions.

“RISE wants to be a rational and independent voice in every sports association facing problems. If there are weaknesses in governance or transparency in decision-making, we will step forward to provide views and suggest improvements,” he said during a press conference to introduce RISE, here today.

He also emphasised that RISE remains committed to advocating for welfare of athletes, including ensuring their livelihood after retiring from the sporting arena.

Meanwhile, Hamdi said the group plans to organise a forum involving various stakeholders to discuss current issues and obtain direct feedback toward improving the national sports ecosystem.

Also present at the press conference were former national hurdler Datuk Karunakarer Selvaratnam, Malaysian Olympians Association (MOA) President Noraseela Mohd Khalid, and former heptathlon athlete Datuk Zaiton Othman.

--BERNAMA