Malaysia strengthens regional cooperation to tackle doping in sports

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is strengthening its commitment to tackling doping in sports through its participation in the 21st Asia-Oceania Intergovernmental Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport in Beijing, China, as preparations continue for the implementation of the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code and the hosting of several major sporting events.

Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohd Taufiq Johari said the meeting served as an important platform to enhance regional cooperation in addressing doping issues and to ensure that athletes can compete in a fair environment.

He said discussions and knowledge-sharing at the meeting were also crucial in ensuring that policies implemented in Malaysia remain aligned with the latest international standards, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the nation’s sports.

“Yesterday, I participated in the 21st Asia-Oceania Intergovernmental Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport.

“The meeting brought together countries from the Asia and Oceania regions to discuss doping issues in sports ahead of the implementation of the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code, which will come into force on Jan 1 next year,” he said in a post on his official Facebook page yesterday.

Taufiq said that during the meeting, he and Anti-Doping Agency of Malaysia (Adamas) director Dr Azril Shazwan Mohd Ali exchanged views and shared best practices with leaders and representatives from countries across both regions.

“Participation in this meeting has undoubtedly provided valuable experience and exposure, and will further strengthen the efforts of the Youth and Sports Ministry through Adamas.

“This is to ensure that sports in Malaysia remain clean, uphold integrity and are free from doping, particularly ahead of the 22nd Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Selangor this August, as well as in preparation to host the 2027 SEA Games,” he said. — Bernama