KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill is seeking a face-to-face meeting with national cycling technical director John Beasley following revelations that the Australian may leave the national programme before his contract expires.
Amarjit, who returned from overseas commitments late yesterday, said he hopes to meet Beasley within the next few days to gain a clearer understanding of the issues behind the veteran coach’s decision.
Beasley recently disclosed that he intends to step down at the end of the year and may not complete his current contract, which expires on Jan 31 next year.
“Of course we want Beasley to stay. That would be the best outcome for Malaysian cycling, but ultimately the decision is his to make and we cannot force him,” Amarjit said when contacted.
“I think the right thing for me to do is to meet Beasley personally and fully understand the situation before making any further comments.
“I have already been in contact with him through text messages and hopefully we can meet over the next few days.”
The prospect of Beasley’s departure has triggered concern across the cycling fraternity, particularly given his pivotal role in transforming Malaysia into a respected force on the world track cycling stage.
Two-time Olympic medallist Datuk Azizulhasni Awang recently cautioned that Malaysian cycling could be heading down a difficult path if Beasley departs, describing him as a key figure behind the country’s success on the world stage.
Azizulhasni said Beasley’s influence extends beyond coaching to athlete development, leadership and long-term planning, adding that replacing someone of his experience and commitment would be a major challenge for Malaysian cycling.
Beasley recently revealed that he has grown weary of dealing with politics, red tape and the lack of a strong grassroots system within Malaysian cycling, prompting him to consider his future.
Since arriving in Malaysia in the mid-2000s, the Australian has overseen the development of several world-class riders, including Azizulhasni, Josiah Ng, Rizal Tisin, Fatehah Mustapa, Shah Firdaus Sahrom and Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri.
His tenure has coincided with some of the most successful years in Malaysian cycling history, helping the nation establish itself as a regular contender on the world stage.
Should Beasley proceed with his plans, it would mark the end of one of the most influential coaching eras in Malaysian sport. – June 16, 2026