Time to light up SEA Games arena after two years of darkness

THE Covid-19 pandemic hit many sectors hard – businesses, entertainment joints, eateries – but sports and sportsmen took a beating like never before.

So many events were cancelled, even the Olympics became less-than stellar while the Euros saw some stadiums being scrapped from the tournament, and the 2021 SEA Games in Vietnam was postponed by a year.

Now, after three years, we finally stand on the verge of South-East Asia’s first major multi-sports festival. The Games will begin on May 12, which means there are many who will miss out on the Hari Raya festivities.

For Malaysia, it marks a new beginning – almost two-thirds of the Malaysian contingent to Vietnam are first-timers.

Of the 584 athletes Malaysia is sending, 378 will be competing in their first Games.

I got to meet some of them during a talk on the relationship between the media and athletes during the ongoing centralised camp organised by the National Sports Council in Bukit Jalil on Thursday.

We talked about our experiences, the expectations of the media, and the joy of telling their stories, challenges and sacrifices.

The new ones were eager, promising so much, and the older ones had grouses. But it wasn’t about the media, it was about social media.

They talked about how some people celebrated when they won, and how they are condemned when they don’t – about how abusive words from irresponsible keyboard warriors can hurt and disrupt their focus.

The SEA Games debutants listened earnestly as they will now get to experience it first hand – being in the eye of the public.

Some will enjoy the limelight but it could be terrifying for others. Looking at their eager faces and excitement, the newbies seemed to be ready to embrace it all – good or bad.

Unlike the seasoned campaigners who are used to competing during festive seasons and being away from family, it will be a new experience for most of the younger ones.

These athletes are already in the “bubble” and will not get to celebrate Hari Raya next week with their families and for some, it will be the longest time away from their loved ones.

These are sacrifices they have to make for the country – and they will likely have to do it again for sporting glory.

Disruptive opinion could break their spirits. However, that’s not to say people should not comment on performances.

Constructive criticisms can help them become stars. Many have used the SEA Games as a platform to achieve stardom. Will there be new ones from the Vietnam edition?

Malaysia have set a reasonably humble target – only 36 golds – but that’s understandable.

“We had to keep the target low as we are unsure of our rivals’ strength,” said National Sport Council athletes division director Jefri Ngadirin.

“Due to Covid-19, the world of sports has been quiet for more than two years. We do not have data to make accurate assessments.

“But one thing is for sure, the morale of the Malaysian contingent is high. This is our first big camp involving a big group since the pandemic hit. Many youngsters are just waiting to strut their stuff.”

All Malaysians hope they do. After two years of bad news, we need new stars to light up the scene and raise hopes and morale.

We hope these young athletes will be able to handle both victory and defeat. And that none will grow arrogant but instead become good ambassadors for the nation.

Talking of good news, Malaysians will be looking south of Vietnam for even more sports glory. The Thomas-Uber Cup Finals will also start in Bangkok on May 8.

The seniors will be there, fighting to end a 30-year wait while the junior shuttlers do battle in Vietnam.

And there is more. The Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, Malaysia Games (Sukma) and even the greatest show on earth – November’s World Cup in Qatar – are all lined up.

It will indeed be a great revival for sports after the two years of agony. And we in Malaysia will be looking to join in the celebrations, starting with some great victories – and news stars – in the SEA Games.

Let the Games and fun begin.