Malaysia Athletics Pushes for Quick Resolution of FTAA Integration Issue
KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 — Malaysia Athletics is urging all parties to expedite the resolution of the ongoing integration issue involving the Federal Territories Athletics Association (FTAA), as it seeks to formalise the body’s inclusion as an affiliate member.
Its secretary-general, Norhayati Karim, said the national federation is committed to ensuring that the Federal Territories are properly represented within the country’s athletics structure.
“Our priority is to resolve this matter swiftly so that FTAA can be officially recognised and brought under the Malaysia Athletics umbrella,” she said after a meeting with regional representatives.
Coordination Efforts Face Setback
Malaysia Athletics has taken steps to consolidate representation from the three Federal Territories — Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya — by convening discussions among their respective athletics bodies.
However, the absence of Putrajaya’s representatives at the latest meeting has slowed progress, highlighting lingering coordination challenges.
Norhayati stressed that complete participation from all territories is crucial to fulfilling the requirements for formal recognition.
Regulatory and Constitutional Requirements
Under Malaysia Athletics’ constitution, any entity representing the Federal Territories must include legitimate representation from Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya before it can be accepted as an affiliate.
At present, the FTAA has yet to meet these conditions. Additionally, it remains unregistered with the Sports Commissioner of Malaysia, which is a mandatory step for official recognition.
Without fulfilling these criteria, the association cannot be formally incorporated into the national athletics framework.
Importance for Athlete Development
The delay in resolving FTAA’s status could hinder the coordinated development of athletics programmes across the Federal Territories.
Malaysia Athletics believes that integrating FTAA would allow for more structured planning, improved governance and better access to national-level initiatives for athletes and coaches.
Call for Immediate Cooperation
Norhayati called on all stakeholders to work together in addressing the remaining issues, particularly in ensuring full representation and compliance with regulatory procedures.
She reiterated that Malaysia Athletics remains ready to admit FTAA as soon as all requirements are met, emphasising that a unified structure would strengthen the sport’s growth in the Federal Territories.
-wilayah.com.my
