IPOH: Paralympics coach R. Jeganathan was not dropped by the National Sports but his contract had ended and was not renewed, says Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu.

       The Youth and Sports Minister said the Council had decided to not extend Jeganathan's contract as they wanted a new coach to train their athletes on a long-term basis

       "The decision was made by the Council, who know better than me. It's not my job to tell them otherwise," he said.

       Ahmad Faizal said this on Saturday (Jan 22) at a press conference after flagging off the Queen's Baton Relay prior to the beginning of the Commonwealth Games at Kampung Manjoi here.

       Prior to this, national Paralympics sprinter Ridzuan Mohd Puzi broke down in tears at a recent interview while pleading to reinstate Jeganathan as his coach as he aims to compete in the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, France.

       On this, Ahmad Faizal said Ridzuan had also initially agreed to the decision to not extend Jeganathan's contract.

       "When he was interviewed by the media, he may have felt emotional about the split as he had spent so much time with Jeganathan," said Ahmad Faizal.

       He added that in sports or politics, coaches, athletes, politicians and ministers come and go.

       "More importantly, it is for sports to continue. I hope our athletes will continue to do well for the country," said Ahmad Faizal.