The National Athletes Welfare Foundation (YAKEB) has appointed new Advisory Board (ALP) members for the 2026-2027 term, with former athletes in Malaysia. The board of director member includes former National Karate Athlete R. Sharmendran among the distinguished individuals selected. His inclusion in the board reflects his dedication to Malaysian sports, both as a former athlete and as the interim head coach of the National Karate Squad.
Sharmendran’s career is highlighted by his remarkable achievement of securing four gold medals in the men’s under 75kg Kumite category at the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. His victory spanned the 2017 Kuala Lumpur, 2019 Manila, 2022 Hanoi and 2023 Phnom Penh Games, making him one of the most celebrated Malaysian athletes. His dedication and excellence was further recognized when he was named as Selangor Sportsman for 2021-2022.
Transitioning as an athlete to a mentor, he took the role as a Head of The National Development Squad in March 2024. In his capacity, he focused on nurturing the young talents in preparation for the 2027 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur. Despite facing challenges, including multiple surgeries that led to his retirement from Karate, Sharmendran remained dedicated to sports.
Appointed as Board of Directors in YAKEB
YAKEB, also known as The National Athletes Welfare Foundation, is under the Ministry of Youth and Sports. They play a crucial role in supporting the welfare of national athletes while fostering youth development in sports. The newly appointed board for the 2025-2027, will work towards implementing impactful programmes, strengthening the foundations structure, and formulating long term plans to support athletes at all stages of their careers.
The board will be chaired by Dato Ahmad Shapawi Ismail, former Director-General of the National Sports Council. And the other board of directors include:
- Hafiz Bin Mat Ramly- Chief Assistant Secretary, Ministry of Finance
- Chan Hong Jin- Deputy General Secretary (Strategic), Ministry of Youth and Sports
- YBrs Dr. Ahmad Munawwar Helmi bin Salin- Director of Medical Department, National Sports Institute
- Normala bt Abdul Rahid- Former National Footballer and President of Srikandi Sports and Amal Club
- Sharon Wee Ee Lin- Former National Squash Athlete and Vice President 1, Malaysian Racquet Squash Association
- Soo Beng Kiang- Former National Badminton Athlete
With a diverse lineup of experienced sports professionals, YAKEB aims to enhance their role in ensuring a comprehensive welfare support for athletes. The foundation continues to focus on initiative with the government’s vision of inclusive youth and sports development.
Sharmendran’s appointment, who has contributed significantly to Malaysian Karate in both coaching and competition is a testament to his commitment to the sports community. His experience and expertise brings valuable insights to YAKEB’s mission.
