Cover Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin, president of the Paralympic Council of Malaysia
Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin, president of the Paralympic Council of Malaysia
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With the Paralympic Games in Paris on the horizon, we sit down with Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin of the Paralympic Council of Malaysia to understand the challenges and aspirations of our Paralympians
When it comes to sports, there are stories that resonate far beyond the roar of the crowd or the glitter of medals. These are tales of perseverance, resilience, and unyielding spirit. With the 2024 Paralympic Games on the horizon, Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) president Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin’s commitment to the nation’s Paralympians offers a compelling glimpse into the heart and soul of Malaysia’s adaptive sports community.
As we sit in the Tatler studio for an interview, Megat’s passion is palpable. “It’s not just about the medals,” he says, his eyes gleaming with determination. “It’s about fairness, inclusivity, and breaking down barriers.”
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Above Megat believes in fairness in terms of merits when it comes to sport
Megat believes in fairness in terms of merits when it comes to sport
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He further reitirates, “Fairness in terms of merits. No discrimination in sports.” This declaration from Megat encapsulates his vision for Malaysian sports. “In order for a nation to be good in sports and develop it well, it has to be based on results,” he asserts, advocating for a meritocratic approach devoid of double standards.
For the Paris Paralympics from August 28 to September 8, Malaysia is gearing up to send a contingent of 23 to 24 athletes, with 17 already qualified (at the time of writing).
These contingents of para-athletes are nurtured within the comprehensive infrastructure provided by the National Sports Council (NSC). Their daily regimen includes rigorous training at Bukit Jalil and participation in international competitions. However, the journey to the Paralympics is not just about physical training. While the NSC handles the daily grind of coaching and competition, PCM focuses on holistic development, from psychological training to securing scholarships for education.
Megat adds that the council’s support doesn’t just end at the finish line. For champions who have earned medals, there are rewards and pensions, ensuring their efforts are recognised long after the applause fades. But even for those who don’t reach the podium, PCM offers continuous support through education and career opportunities. “We will still help them with whatever they choose to do alternatively,” says Megat.
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However, despite the progress, Megat candidly discusses the hurdles PCM faces, particularly in funding, compelling PCM to rely on major private sponsors and sometimes even Megat’s personal funds to support the cause. “We need it for the grassroots. For every sport to activate and to have its own programmes for its athletes. Being disabled and being disabled but playing sports are two different things. You have to go through a classification where the professionals will assess and categorise you in what kind of sports you can participate. It’s very strict and professional,” he adds.
But it’s not just about money. The real battle, Megat believes, is against ignorance. “It’s the mindset,” he sighs. “There’s always this perception of a disabled person selling tissues on the street. But come to the Paralympic Games and see what these athletes can do, and it will change your perception. They are as professional as any Olympic-level athlete like Usain Bolt, or more,” says Megat with pride.
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Above Megat is also a parent of a child with special needs
Megat is also a parent of a child with special needs
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Megat’s dedication is deeply personal. As a parent of a special needs child, his journey is one of profound empathy and understanding. “To me, it’s a blessing. It changed me. Made me more kind and humane,” he shares, reflecting on how his personal experiences have shaped his approach to leadership within PCM.
With their focus set on Paris 2024, PCM’s ambitions are high. Targeting four gold medals in athletics, badminton, and powerlifting, PCM is committed to showcasing the prowess of Malaysia’s Paralympians on the global stage. With each athlete’s journey, there is a testament to their indomitable spirit.
Credits
Photography: Fady Younis
Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.
As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.
Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb
