'Outspoken' Hannah sets vision on new culture in sports industry

SHAH ALAM - Known to be "outspoken" politician on women and children issues, Hannah Yeoh has been equally vocal on drafting sexual harrasment laws and establishing a special agency for children.

To discuss further on her vision and mission, Sinar Premium had an exclusive interview with the newly-minted Youth and Sports Minister who is serving as a first-time minister under the unity government.

Sharing her first expression of being apppointed as Youth and Sports Minister (KBS) after Datuk Seri Azalina Othman (2004-2008), Hannah said she is extremely excited.

"I was surprised when I was selected by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to hold the portfolio as youth and sports minister because it is a role with a great responsibilty.

"Going back to the history of ministers appointment in this ministry, there are five individuals who have successfully held position as prime minister after leading the youth and sports ministry and this was a 'stepping stone' for young leaders in Umno.

"Now this portfolio has been given to a woman from the party who used to be in the opposition.Therefore, I am proud because the prime minister mandated and trust women as well Pakatan Harapan (PH) to lead KBS," she said.

When asked on youth problems, Hannah said she needs time to focus on sports issue for now.

"I understand the youth aspect, we help children aged 18 and youths till 30 years old.

"But for sports issues, I need more time to meet with sports associations and listen to their problems because this is a new field for me," she said.

Hannah further said that she had a townhall session with athletes and sports associations, adding that one of the main challenges in sports industry is insufficient funds which eventually becomes a barrier for athletes to participate in tournaments and competitions.

"I have received complaints from industry players over lack of exposure to participate in international tournaments and competitions. It is causing them to remain static," she added.

The minister further said that her ministry is waiting for 2023 budget to be presented again in Parliament.

Commenting further on key performance indicators (KPI) for the first 100 days of serving as a minister, Hannah stressed that safety issues and healthy environment for her athletes is her 'top-priority'.

"In this first one month, my priority will be on safety and healthy environment for athletes" she said, adding that her second priority was to have access to sports facilities.

Next, Hannah wants to encourage public to participate in sports as the younger generation are lacking in sport activities.

Hannah, 44, a former lawyer joined DAP in 2006.