Deepavali initiative recognises contributions of active and retired athletes

KUALA LUMPUR - Ten former and current Malaysian athletes have received financial aid from the National Sports Council (NSC), 100PLUS, and the National Athletes Welfare Foundation (Yakeb) ahead of Deepavali, the Festival of Lights. The gesture, aimed at recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of the athletes, was extended to four active athletes and six retired stars.

R. Rajendran, a former kabaddi player who represented Malaysia at the 2002 Busan Asian Games, expressed pride in knowing that his former sporting fraternity still remembered him. He appreciated the contribution made by the NSC and Yakeb, stating, "I am very happy that we are not forgotten even though we left competitive sports a long time ago."

The active recipients of the financial aid included para-taekwondo athletes A, Kirthan Raj, N. Devaosrichalam, and Orson Jothi, as well as para-athlete V. Jyayahmurugan. The six retired athletes recognized include Rajendran and former competitors in taekwondo, karate, athletics, and cricket. The NSC's director-general, Arrifin Ghani, highlighted that the contribution was part of ongoing efforts by the council, 100PLUS, and Yakeb to stay connected with athletes during significant religious celebrations.

He expressed hope that the Deepavali festivities would bring light and happiness to the athletes and their families.