CONGRATULATIONS to Datuk Nicol David and Datuk Ng Boon Bee on being bestowed awards by the Penang and Negri Sembilan heads of state for their contributions to the nation in sports.

Recently, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced a “Million Ringgit” carrot for athletes competing in the forthcoming Olympics and world-class tournaments.

But what about the officiating officials at these levels? There are a handful of officials who are picked by international sports federations to officiate at these prestigious events.

I have been selected to officiate in the Olympic and world sports meetings.

Beijing will be my third Olympics, after Sydney and Athens. I have also officiated at four World Cups since 1998.

We, the unsung officials, are always ignored.

We are not asking much. Perhaps the government could also introduce a similar scheme — maybe with a lower amount or a pension scheme — so that it can take care of our loved ones when we retire.

The DPM should seek the assistance of local sports associations to identify and vet the list of officials appointed to the various world-class sports.

The Youth and Sports Ministry, National Sports Council and the Olympic Council Of Malaysia could assist in this.

A.S.Ipoh

Source: NST – July 24, 2008