PARIS: Six athletes and four officials represented Malaysia at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics yesterday.
The national athletes were led by two flag bearers – diver Bertrand Rhodict and sailor Nur Shazrin Mohd Latif – at the grand opening on decorated boats at the River Seine.
The other athletes were Nur Dhabitah Sabri (diving), Khairulnizam Mohd Afendy (sailing), Ashley Lau (golf) and Tan Rouxin (swimming).The Malaysian contingent also included chef de mission Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin, his deputy Datuk Nicol David, the contingent’s medical chief Dr Jasmiza Khuzairi Jasme, and Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) safeguarding officer Ang Li Peng.
The Malaysian athletes wore traditional outfits, featuring olive green with golden motifs, designed by renowned local fashion designers Rizman Ruzaini, named “The Malaya”.
The women athletes wore songket-patterned Baju Kurung with a kelubung while the men donned the Baju Melayu Teluk Belanga.
Hamidin, meanwhile, expressed confidence in the safety of the athletes and officials at the Games, despite media reports of incidents such as theft and sexual assault in the city.
“I am not worried about the athletes as they are staying within the Games Village and only visit the competition venues. Security is tight at the Games Village with thorough checks.
“However, I am slightly concerned about the safety of their family members, friends and other Malaysians here for the Games.
“I hope they will take care of their safety. At present, there have been no issues with our athletes,” he said.
