By Amiril Muttaqien Meketar and Ahmad Nazrin Syahmi Mohamad Arif
PUTRAJAYA, March 27 (Bernama) -- Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari has pledged to drive the ministry towards excellence and distinction, introducing the JUARA approach to strengthen youth and sports development.
Appointed in the Cabinet reshuffle of the MADANI government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, he said the initiative reflects his commitment to delivering on the trust placed in him.
He explained that “JUARA” represents key values, with “J” referring to identity (jati diri), “U” to excellence, “A” to being active, “R” to being relevant and responsive, and the final “A” to being aggressive.
“Excellence means we must strive to outperform in every competition we take part in. Being active reflects our aim to nurture more youths to participate in sports and leadership programmes.
“Relevance and responsiveness mean youths must stay in tune with current developments and respond to current issues, while our sports must remain competitive on the global stage. Being aggressive refers to moving swiftly, proactively and decisively.”
He said this in an exclusive interview with Bernama led by Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj at his office here recently.
Dr Mohammed Taufiq also stressed that despite perceptions of the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) as a junior ministry, its role is crucial in shaping the nation’s future.
“In my view, this is one of the most important ministries. It determines the future of the country,” he said.
He noted that the youth portfolio is critical, as young people are the nation’s future leaders who will take over its leadership.
He added that sports is a key national asset and a source of pride, as it helps safeguard athletes’ welfare and enables them to achieve success that brings honour to Malaysia.
“Sports also has a unique power to unite Malaysians of all races, backgrounds and religions,” he said.
Recalling his appointment on Dec 16 last year, Dr Mohammed Taufiq said it came as a surprise, as it unfolded within a short period before the Cabinet lineup was announced.
“I received a call from the Prime Minister about two hours before the Cabinet reshuffle announcement.
“At the time, I was in Sungai Petani. He asked me to travel to Kuala Lumpur immediately for the swearing-in the following day,” he added.
In the reshuffle, Dr Mohammed Taufiq took over from Hannah Yeoh, who was reassigned as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories).
-- BERNAMA
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