JOHOR BARU: The chances of this season’s M-League (Malaysia Football League) resuming is looking bright following Malaysia’s success in containing the Covid-19 pandemic.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican (pic) said the matter would be among the topics discussed during a meeting this coming Thursday (July 9).
“The meeting, which is to be chaired by Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, is the platform to decide on the opening of various sectors, which includes the economy, social, recreational, religious and even sports, ” he added.
Reezal said after conducting a working visit to the Larkin Arena Aquatic Centre here on Tuesday (July 7).
He, however, stressed that the decision on whether to resume the M-League and other contact sports would depend on the National Security Council.
“However everything looks positive and I hope the number of Covid-19 cases recorded continues to go down.
“Malaysians are very disciplined and have flattened the Covid-19 curve. Confidence is high, not only from the rakyat but also from the government in the resumption of sports such as football, ” he added
In an unrelated matter, Reezal said the ministry was not concerned over the state’s preparation in organising Sukma (Malaysia Games) as many of the facilities and venues for the event were almost complete.
“The construction works at venues and facilities for Sukma Johor is between 95% and 97% complete, whereas at the aquatic centre here, what’s left is just the warm-up pool.
“I am optimistic that all preparations will be ready as early as four to five months before Sukma starts, ” he added.
When asked if Sukma would still be held in March next year, Reezal said the matter would be discussed during Sukma’s committee meeting soon.
“The meeting is supposed to be held in Oct this year, but I have been told that it has now been moved forward following the preparation made by the Johor government and the Sukma secretariat, ” he added.
The 20th edition of Sukma, which Johor is playing host, should be held between July 11 and July 29 but it has been postponed due to Covid-19.
Source : The Star