Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reached out in a heartfelt gesture to a former national race walker and 1998 Commonwealth Game gold medalist G.Saravanan, who is currently battling with motor neurone disease (MND). The Prime Minister’s office extended a contribution to help ease Saravanan’s burden to honour a sportsman whose legacy continues to inspire the nation.
The 54 year old Saravanan, who made history by clinching Malaysia’s first-ever gold medal in the men’s 50km walk at 1998 Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games, was diagnosed with MND in 2021, a progressive neurological condition that effects nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle activity.
On behalf of Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Dato Seri Dr Wan Azizah, the Prime Minister’s Political Secretary Datuk Ahmad Farhan Fauzi visited Saravanan at a hospital near Petaling Jaya to pass the aid personally and convey their gratitude and support.
“Brother G.Saravanan is not just an ordinary athlete, he is a symbol of pride. The story of his battle with this disease has moved the Prime Minister and his wife deeply. Although is speech is now limited, the strength of his spirit remains incredibly powerful. The flame of the champions heart has never been extinguished”.
The visit was also made by Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim and representatives from the National Athletes Welfare Foundation (YAKEB), highlighting the ongoing institutional support for Malaysia’s former sports icon.
A Call for Empathy and Continued Support
As Saravanan continues to receive treatment, the public support from top government leaders sends a powerful message about the importance of honouring and caring the national heroes beyond their competitive years.
Ahmad Farhan also took a moment to offer his prayers for Saravanan’s well being, wishing him strength in this crucial time. He extended it to Saravanan’s family as well, praying for their continued courage, and ease in managing his care.
The news of G. Saravanan has sparked wider conversation about how Malaysia supports it’s former athletes, especially those who have brought glory to the nation, and faces hardships now. It also underlines the importance of organizations like YAKEB in ensuring that no athletes are left behind.
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