KUALA LUMPUR, 14 Nov -- To ensure the national para athletes can do their best preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games, FWD Takaful Berhad (FWD Takaful), an insurance company, has pledged sponsorship for a one year term worth RM5 million to the National Sports Council (NSC).

Under the agreement which runs from Jan 1 to Dec 31, 2020, the  company will bear the cost for the national para athletes in terms of their sports equipment, attire, training, travel and expenses, as well as providing takaful coverage for all athletes including those who will be competing in Tokyo.

The sponsorship agreement, which was witnessed by Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, was signed by  FWD Takaful chief executive officer, Salim Majid Zain and NSC director-general, Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail in a brief ceremony held at the Paralympic Excellence Centre in Kampung Pandan, here today.

Earlier in his speech, Syed Saddiq thanked  FWD Takaful Berhad for investing in helping outstanding athletes and called on more private companies and corporate bodies to contribute in helping to boost sports in the country.

"This is the biggest sponsorship ever given to the national para athletes. The sponsorship is so meaningful because we all know the struggle that our athletes go through, it is truly incredible.

"The determination they have shown is incredible, they are willing to leave their families to fight for the country and at the same time, the obstacles they face are even more difficult than for  the others," Syed Saddiq said.

Salim in his speech said that the sponsorship which includes financing various events such as the upcoming National Circuits competition for various para sports events and also any events that focus on unearthing new Paralympic athletes talents, such as the Talent Development Camp and the Para Sports Carnival.

At the same time, he hoped the sponsorship would enhance the spirit of the athletes to continue their pursuit of success in the international sporting arena.

"The sponsorship reflects FWD Takaful commitment in promoting inclusiveness including providing takaful protection for Malaysian athletes as part of our strong support in fulfilling their dreams.

"Being part of this initiative is an honour for us, in line with our community care vision which is to empower people to live better lives," said Salim.

The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games is scheduled to take place from Aug 25 to Sept 6, 2020.

-- BERNAMA