KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 7 — The Malaysian contingent heading to the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou have been advised to limit the use of social media and ensure they remain focused.
Chef-de-mission Datuk Chong Kim Fatt said in the final two weeks ahead of the games, the athletes should focus entirely on training and their performance.
He said excessive use of social media could affect their focus, and have a negative impact on their mental health if they were unable to manage criticisms or excessive praise from netizens.
“We want to boost the spirit of our athletes to fight all the way for the country and go for gold. Do not just go saying: ‘I will try my best, and see how it goes.’ Be ready to fight all the way.
“The main goal is to win medals on the court (not to increase followers on social media). We (the secretariat) will deal with all the problems that arise before the competition, (but) after entering the court, it is up to the athletes to determine the results,” Chong said after inspecting the training of the rhythmic gymnastics and gymnastics squads earlier today.
Meanwhile, he said the national contingent is 99 per cent ready to face the world’s second-largest multi-sport event from September 23 to October 8.
The cricket team will be the first to leave for Hangzhou on September 17, as the event was scheduled to begin on September 19.
Regarding the event’s organisation, Chong said the accommodation facilities were top-notch, while halal food was also provided at the Sports Village at all times.
“The Chinese government does not only want to organise the Games, but also wants to show the world the rapid development and progress of the country,” he said.
— Bernama
