Extra deputy CDMs needed for multi-city Sea Games, says OCM

New Straits Times

24-06-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) has stressed the need for there to be "at least two" deputy chef de missions appointed to help lead the national contingent at the Thailand Sea Games (Dec 9-20).
OCM president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria said a number of candidates have already been shortlisted for the CDM and deputy CDM positions.
"The issue is in terms of logistics, the games will be held across three areas - Bangkok, Songkhla and Chonburi so we have to discuss the selection of one CDM and a few deputies, two at least. We will have to look at three or four personalities," said Norza yesterday (June 23).
"It (candidates) will be a mix of sports administrators from OCM, former athletes as well as representatives from national sports associations.
"We have shortlisted a few names and I will be in Penang tomorrow (today) with the Youth and Sports Minister (Hannah Yeoh).
"I will discuss this with her. Although the right (to select CDM) is with OCM, we feel that we should also get approval from the minister."
The appointment of at least two deputy CDMs has been the norm in recent editions of the Sea Games though there has yet to be three deputy CDMs appointed for the games.
Tenpin bowling legend Datuk Shalin Zulkifli and former national squash player Sharon Wee served as deputy CDMs for the 2023 Phnom Penh games. Datuk Nasir Ali led the contingent as CDM.
On a separate note, Norza added that Yonex has been appointed to supply the apparel for the national contingent at the Thailand Sea Games.
"We have appointed Yonex, so we will sit down with them (to discuss) the design and everything. We will also bring in the National Sports Council this time," he said.
The official attire originally unveiled for the Paris Olympics contingent last year was poorly received by the public and prompted OCM to redesign the kit prior to the games.