NEWLY appointed Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican does not believe he is too old to helm the youth-oriented ministry.
Reezal, who started work at his office in Menara KBS, Putrajaya yesterday, is 20 years older than his predecessor Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman. He will turn 47 in July.
The former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs admitted he was caught off guard when he was named for the position by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
“My first thought was that I cannot be an ironman,” quipped Reezal, in reference to former Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin and Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz who are both keen triathletes.
“I wondered if I was too old to be in this ministry but after further reflection, I believe that I am not. The Youth and Sports ministers in Singapore, Thailand, South Korea and even Japan are in their 50s.
“I believe the Prime Minister gave me the position based on my background as a former youth leader and to provide some sense of direction and maturity to this ministry.
“I cannot reverse my age but for me what is important is to find middle ground in regard to the development of sports and the development of youth in the country. I believe some former ministers have been accused of leaning too much towards sports.”
Reezal admitted that it’s still too early to say what his long term plans are for Malayisan sports but stressed that preparations for the Tokyo Olympics on July 24-Aug 9, where the country hopes to win its first gold, remain the priority for now. He has been appointed as chairman of the Road to Tokyo (RTT) steering committee.
“This is my first day on the job and I can't possibly tell you what is going to happen in the next three years,” said Reezal, who is a fan of Tottenham Hotspur.
“But suffice to say, I am looking at what has already been planned by the ministry and the National Sports Council (NSC) and I will look into areas in which I can enhance and also make plans which are achievable.
“For now, winning a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics, a goal which Malaysians have long dreamt of achieving, is the priority.
“I have yet to chair an RTT meeting, so give me a chance to be briefed in detail first. What I have been told so far is that we remain on track (preparation wise).”
Reezal stressed that he would not scrap any initiatives set in place by the former administration if they are beneficial to Malaysians, including the support given to esports.
Saddiq has been a keen proponent of esports, which is rapidly gaining popularity among youth in Malaysia, during his tenure as sports minister.