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This tweet by @ron_hogg reflects the sentiments of many in the sports industry. They have been victims of the "pause" button since the 1st MCO in March 2020. So who's to blame? I'm starting a thread, let's discuss ...
The sports industry in Malaysia is HUGE. However, it's never been properly documented. Ex @KBSMalaysia @shaberyc had plans regarding the sports industry in Malaysia but there was no follow through when he left the ministry.
During my teh tarik session with Assoc Prof Dr Megat Ahmad Kamaluddin in 2019, he told me that based on his research, the sports industry in Malaysia in 2013 was valued at RM37.78 billion. https://twentytwo13.my/sports/big-business-yet-malaysia-missing-out-on-sports-industry/
When I met @reezal_merican April last year, he said: “The sports industry is huge and it’s something we should look at. Also, it is a wealth creator as more youths, athletes and associations will be able to leverage on a thriving industry.” https://twentytwo13.my/sports/sports-industry-creating-opportunities-for-youths-top-on-reezal-mericans-mind/
But #Covid19 has left futsal, football, badminton, gym operators, swimming instructors & personal trainers frustrated. A gym operator shared: “I know of someone who took a loan of over RM1 million to set up a gym and now he is not earning a single sen.” https://twentytwo13.my/sports/strain-of-covid-19-pandemic-leaves-gyms-gasping-for-breath/
Public health is important. But the problem also lies with the decision makers. The powers-that-be fail to understand the sports industry and the value it brings to a population which is already mentally fatigued with worries and dilemmas due to #Covid19. https://twentytwo13.my/issues/differing-fates-of-top-glove-and-sports-industry-boils-down-to-ringgit-and-sen/
The easy way out would be to blame @KBSMalaysia. For the record, they have been fighting for a sports bubble. I had on @BFMradio credited KBS for the concept. But I also said the govt made a bad call by postponing the Msia Cup. (6.05s-7.36s) https://www.bfm.my/podcast/evening-edition/evening-edition/has-our-relationship-with-sporting-events-changed
At the end of the day, it's @MKNJPM's call. I was informed @reezal_merican spoke to @IsmailSabri60 about allowing the Malaysia Cup. Suggestions, including by @FAM_Malaysia & @MFL_MY, were made but MKN felt strongly against it. https://twentytwo13.my/issues/national-security-council-says-no-to-malaysia-cup/
@sepangcircuit CEO has this afternoon said the sports bubble concept was supposed to be practiced in the upcoming @MotoGP winter test. But with MCO 2.0, the event has been cancelled. https://twentytwo13.my/sports/sic-prepared-for-the-worst-will-push-for-sports-bubble-post-mco/
Who do we blame? Everyone. Parents who think there's no future in sports, politicians who think lightly of sports, a society that believes sports is just entertainment.
Public health is important. Working out is important too.
And sports is not just about elite athletes.
Public health is important. Working out is important too.
And sports is not just about elite athletes.
As per my Jan 7 article, sports should be given the respect it deserves. It is the lifeline to many people. It is the “cure” to many illnesses. https://twentytwo13.my/sports/much-potential-yet-youth-and-sports-ministry-seen-as-small-portfolio/
I feel for the operators. I feel for the personal trainers. Many of them are friends. I truly hope the politicians, including the active sportsman @tzafrul_aziz and golf loving @MuhyiddinYassin realise the importance of the sports industry in Malaysia.
I end this thread with what I wrote in my Nov 19, 2020 article:
"The government, especially @MKNJPM, must understand the repercussions of continuously pressing the pause button on the sports industry."
https://twentytwo13.my/sports/malaysian-sports-industry-needs-workable-solution-fast-to-get-moving/
#StayStrong #StaySafe
"The government, especially @MKNJPM, must understand the repercussions of continuously pressing the pause button on the sports industry."
https://twentytwo13.my/sports/malaysian-sports-industry-needs-workable-solution-fast-to-get-moving/
#StayStrong #StaySafe
