ISTAF EXTENDS HIGHEST APPRECIATION TO PM ANWAR FOR ELEVATING DIGNITY OF SEPAK TAKRAW

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 (Bernama) - The International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) extends its highest appreciation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his continuous support in elevating the dignity of the sport as a symbol of Malaysian cultural heritage and national identity.

ISTAF Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Kader said that through the Malaysia MADANI agenda, this has, in turn, injected confidence and inspiration into the entire sporting community, affirming that sepaktakraw is not just a heritage of the past but also serves as a channel for international diplomacy.

According to him, the Prime Minister understands that cultural heritage must thrive within a modern system based on knowledge, sports science, accountable governance, and a global vision, which also opens a new chapter in strengthening sepaktakraw's position as Asia's most influential heritage sport.

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"ISTAF also looks forward to the full support of the MADANI Government to have sepaktakraw listed as an official sport at the Olympic Games in the future.

"ISTAF is confident that with the Prime Minister's leadership and moral support, the dream of making Malaysia a global leader in upholding this world heritage sport is not impossible," said Abdul Halim, who is also the President of the Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF), in a statement released today.

Abdul Halim also expressed appreciation to Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh for her professional commitment and dynamic leadership in strengthening the development of the sport through the establishment of the Malaysian Sepaktakraw Academy (ASM), which is set to become a world-class centre of excellence.

-- BERNAMA