KUALA LUMPUR – The Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) expresses confidence that its Paris Paralympics attire will surpass the quality of the attire prepared by the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) for its able-bodied athletes.
Their response follows public backlash against OCM’s recently launched Paris Olympics contingent attire at The Exchange TRX during Olympic Day Malaysia on June 23.
Fans criticised the design as significantly different and unappealing compared to previous Olympic editions, particularly disapproving of the altered Jalur Gemilang-coloured emblem, which was changed to gold.
Speaking to Scoop, PCM president Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharudin revealed that two sets of attire designs have been prepared for its Paralympic athletes, including one sponsored by the National Sports Council (NSC).
He also said that the attire’s unveiling ceremony is scheduled for July 9 at the Paralympic Excellence Centre in Kg Pandan.
“Honestly speaking, the attire sponsored by NSC for our Paris-bound contingent looks decent. I shouldn’t complain much because they sponsored it with their own funds. I leave it to the public to judge its appeal.
“However, I can guarantee and proudly say that PCM’s attire designed for our athletes, for use during their departure, arrival and leisure during the Games, surpasses what the able-bodied athletes will receive.
“We collaborated with a local boutique brand, ensuring the best for our athletes. I personally approved the final design without interference.
“As the governing body, it’s my duty to ensure our athletes look impressive globally, avoiding any sense of inferiority. First impressions matter greatly to me.
“I’m excited for the unveiling ceremony, and our athletes are eager to wear the new attire. Our design maintains the prominence of the Malaysian flag,” said Megat when contacted.
PCM has partnered with Nerves Clothing for the attire and announced Voltra Pro’s sponsorship of shoes for its athletes at the Paralympics.
“We’re pleased to collaborate with these local brands and aim to attract more sponsors for our athletes in the future.
“During the July 9 unveiling ceremony, PCM will award RM25,000, sponsored by Zero Healthcare, to each qualifying athlete for Paralympic preparations,” Megat added.
In the past, Malaysia won five medals (three golds and two silvers) at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
This year’s Paralympics are scheduled from August 28 to September 8. – July 1, 2024