Taufiq admits gaps, communication breakdown with Azizulhasni

Youth and sports minister Dr Taufiq Johari admitted to communication gaps and a breakdown that led to controversy surrounding track cycling ace Azizulhasni Awang's plans to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Dr Taufiq took responsibility for the issue and pledged to prevent similar occurrences in the future, emphasizing the importance of effective communication between the ministry, National Sports Council (MSN), the athlete, and the association to avoid confusion.

The decision to allow Azizulhasni to pursue his LA28 mission was made during an MSN board meeting on August 13, following a request from the minister to evaluate the matter. The MSN subsequently issued an offer letter enabling Azizulhasni to continue his LA28 mission just two days later. The track cycling ace, a former world champion, accepted the offer.

With the matter now resolved, Dr Taufiq mentioned that the focus moving forward is determining the next steps needed for Azizulhasni's LA28 preparations. This will involve consultations among Azizulhasni, the cycling association, the MSN, and the National Sports Institute to assess the assistance and support required.

Dr Taufiq also announced plans to hold a series of meetings and town halls with athletes to ensure that issues can be identified and resolved more swiftly. Azizulhasni had already taken the initiative to upload a nine-page statement on Instagram detailing the LA28 qualification process and his career's future, seeking clear answers from the ministry and MSN regarding his continued involvement in the Olympics.

The ministry denied disregarding Azizulhasni's plans or failing to acknowledge his contributions, emphasizing their consistent support for him, including in his LA28 preparations.