KUALA LUMPUR – There is no need for the national Paralympians to wear digital tracking devices throughout the Paris Paralympics.
Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) president Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharudin said the decision was taken after receiving safety guarantees from the organisers of the world’s biggest multi-sport games.
“They (the organisers) have given their word that they are going to beef up security in Paris. So, I decided that there was no need for them to wear the tracking devices over there.
“I have informed the company sponsoring the digital wristband that we will not be wearing them and thanked them for their assistance,” he said after appearing as a guest on Bernama Radio’s Jendela Fikir programme today.
In addition to the organisers’ guarantee, Megat also stays in contact with the Malaysian embassy in Paris to get the real picture and any latest reports following the political tension in France.
Meanwhile, Megat said three or four more athletes would be joining the Paris-bound Malaysian contingent, with their names to be announced after the selection committee meeting tomorrow.
As of last week, the PCM has confirmed that 25 national athletes will compete in the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8.
Megat was also pleased that the total number of sponsors willing to assist the national contingent in Paris had so far doubled compared to the Tokyo 2020 edition.
He did not rule out the possibility of the PCM receiving more sponsorship from other companies ahead of Paris 2024.
“At Tokyo 2020, we had three sponsors. For Paris 2024, we already have six sponsors and the numbers could still increase before the Games begin,” he said. – July 17, 2024