JOHOR BARU: Two-time Rugby World Cup winner Sonny Bill Williams has officially been appointed Johor sports ambassador.
The 39-year-old global sports icon said he was humbled and honoured to take on the role and looked forward to contributing to the state’s sporting development.
“It is a privilege to be appointed Johor sports ambassador and I am thrilled to support the growth of sports in Johor.
“I also hope to inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams, work hard, and achieve success,” he said at a press conference here on Friday (April 4).
The appointment was formalised through a signing ceremony between the Johor Sports Council (MSNJ) and Williams.
The ceremony was witnessed by state youth, sports and entrepreneur development committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah.
Williams said his journey as a professional athlete had shaped his values and beliefs, and he hoped to pass on those lessons.
“Not everyone will become a professional athlete, but everyone has the chance to be the best version of themselves.
“Sports can teach us how to work hard, stay focused and live with purpose,” he said, adding that his role would involve mentoring, youth programmes and sports clinics.
Williams also thanked Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim for the appointment, noting that none of this would have been possible without the Regent’s vision and leadership.
He added that he was excited about Johor’s future in sports, particularly in empowering youth on the world stage.
“The next five to 10 years will be game-changing. With hard work and the right mindset, anything is possible,” he said.
Williams, who earned 58 caps playing for New Zealand's All Blacks, was on the teams that won the 2011 and 2015 World Cups.
