By Khairul Azran Hussin
SHAH ALAM, March 19 — Malaysia Games (Sukma) athletes in Selangor have started full training but are subjected to strict standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Selangor National Sports Council (MSNS) executive director Mohamad Nizam Marjugi said the athletes should be prepared to make some changes in their training routines to prevent the spread of Covid-19 at training centres.
“Athletes may feel a little awkward during training but it is for the good of all parties, but I was informed that the athletes are enthusiastic and excited for training.
“It’s just that all parties need to maintain discipline, especially in ensuring cleanliness in the training centre at all times,” he told SelangorKini yesterday.
He said there were those who suggested that MSNS organise a closed competition among the state’s athletes but it is still under consideration.
On February 9, the National Security Council (NSC) allowed the Malaysia League (M-League), Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) and Sepak Takraw League (STL) teams to start training but players had to comply with quarantine at the team’s designated camp or residence.
Two days later, the NSC allowed sports such as tennis, badminton and ping pong that involve individual events, while skills training of football, basketball, hockey and sepak takraw athletes was allowed without involving physical contact.
Yesterday, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said nearly 600 national athletes covering 28 sports who underwent quarantine training following the increase in Covid-19 cases at the end of last year, were now given permission to undergo central training in a controlled environment.
