PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian contingent at the 2020 Paralympic Games will be carrying the pride and hope of the entire “Malaysian Family” in Tokyo, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

       In a pep talk to the country’s 22 participating athletes, Ismail Sabri said it is his wish to hear the Negaraku being played in Tokyo during this year’s Paralympics.

       “You all are the pride of Malaysia. We are all one family. And you are the representatives of the Malaysian Family and you will carry our good name and make us proud in Tokyo.

       “The Negaraku was played three times during the 2016 Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro.

       “You can help ensure the Malaysian flag will be hoisted and the Negaraku be played as many times as possible in Tokyo,” he said during a video conference held with Malaysia’s Paralympics athletes yesterday.

       The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games began yesterday and will end on Sept 5.

       Malaysia is represented by the 22 athletes who will compete in nine sports involving a total of 32 events.

       Also present during the virtual conference were Chef de Mission Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin and Senator Datuk Ras Adiba Mohd Radzi.

       Ismail Sabri told the athletes to take good care and reminded them to adhere to all Covid-19 SOP set by the organisers of the Paralympics.

       In 2016, Malaysia won its first-ever Paralympics gold medals through sprinter Mohamad Ridzuan Mohamad Puzi, shot putter Muhammad Ziyad Zolkefli and long jumper Abdul Latif Romly.