Monday July 6, 2009
Athletes get green light to compete overseas
By IAN YEE
BUKIT JALIL: It’s the green light for our athletes looking to compete overseas.
In spite of the threat of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said that athletes were free to travel – as long as they are aware of the risks.
“We will give them the choice. If they are not willing to take the risk, we will respect their decision.
“But at the moment, the ministry is still sending out athletes,” he told reporters after attending the Cheer 2009 national cheerleading competition here yesterday.
“The decision was made after consulting the Ministry of Health.
“They warned that should our athletes travel overseas, there will certainly be risks.”
He added that the virus “shouldn’t be an obstacle” for athletes since various international competitions have already gone ahead.
“There’s been the Wimbledon (tennis championship), the US Open (golf) and the Confederations Cup (football).
“Many people might have contracted the virus, but the risk isn’t too big.”
The minister also commented on business tycoon Ananda Krishnan’s reported bid for English football club Newcastle United.
He called it a “business decision” and hailed the move.
“We should be proud if it really happens that a Malaysian is involved in such a huge transaction.
“It’s not impossible, and I hope it goes through. I hope it can have a big impact on the development of Malaysian football,” he said.
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