Cycling icon Ng Joo Ngan will finally receive the full RM5,000 prize promised to him in 1970 when he was named Malaysia’s sportsman of the year.
Back then, he was given only RM500. The balance was said to have been diverted to the federation, and for 55 years the money never came.
Yesterday, that wrong was finally set right.
The Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF), led by Amarjit Singh Gill, has become the first sports body to make good on its debt.
In doing so, it has set a standard others can no longer ignore.
“Legends like Joo Ngan carried Malaysia’s name when resources were scarce and recognition was limited,” said Amarjit.
“If we cannot honour them properly now, what message are we sending to the younger generation?
“Treating our past athletes with dignity…