KUALA LUMPUR, March 5 — The National Sports Institute (ISN) remains committed to provide the best services to track cyclist Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang via programmes under the agency for as long as he wishes to serve as an athlete.
ISN chief executive officer P. Vellapandian said the matter is not only subject to Azizulhasni, who previously received aid under the Road to Gold (RTG) programme, but also to any athlete in the Podium Programme, which is also a priority for ISN.
“I’m not saying there’s a lot of attention, but it’s up to them; I think Mohd Azizulhasni’s involvement again is not clear... We have not been informed that he will train again, but as usual, if the athlete is under the (RTG and Podium) program, we will provide the services just like before.
“We will continue to provide services without any obstacles. Priority will be given,” he told reporters after officiating the handing over of the Jalur Gemilang to the national baseball5 (B5) squad that will participate in the B5 Youth Asia Cup here today.
On February 20, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh met Azizulhasni, but is waiting for the right time to announce the direction of the former keirin world champion’s career.
The situation remains uncertain as Azizulhasni has yet to make a decision on his future after his last appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Meanwhile, Vellapandian hopes the B5 squad will show a high level of fighting spirit to finish among the top three teams at the tournament, which will take place in Taiwan on March 11.
He said it would brighten the chances of qualifying for the World Cup in Mexico and the Junior Olympics in Senegal next year.
— Bernama
