Petaling Jaya, Selangor (Wednesday, 25 October 2023) – Today, in a significant event marking
a new chapter for the sport of athletics in Malaysia, Cahya Mata Sarawak Berhad (Cahya Mata)
and Malaysia Athletics Federation (MAF) announced a strategic partnership with the official
signing of a sponsorship agreement between the two esteemed organisations. Cahya Mata, on its
part, has pledged RM5 million to MAF effective from 2023 until 2025 with the collaboration
focusing on the development of athletics programs and grassroots initiatives to promote the
sport in Malaysia.
This venture is deeply committed towards the holistic well-being of the Malaysian athletes,
emphasising on enhancing both their physical and mental state. By equipping them with
requisite resources, training and support, we aim to amplify the careers of Malaysian athletes,
ensuring they are competitive and well-positioned in the wider sporting landscape.
Furthermore, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and experienced coaches, MAF is set on
aligning its athletes with international benchmarks, fostering an environment that enables them
to excel to their fullest potential. The ultimate goal is to help transcend them into victors in the
international arena and, by doing so, elevate Malaysian athletics’ position further on the global
stage.
Committed to the betterment of the Territory of Sarawak community since 1974, Cahya Mata is
on the brink of celebrating its 50th anniversary. As the Group approaches this milestone, its
alliance with MAF stands as a testament to its unwavering dedication to the growth and
excellence of athletic sports in Malaysia.
Throughout its journey, Cahya Mata’s core principle has always been deeply rooted in enriching
the well-being of the community, corporate philanthropy, safety, and environmental standards.
Today, Cahya Mata adds another significant milestone to its legacy as it extends its support to
local athletes in partnership with MAF.
With roots dating back to 1906 and affiliations with the National Sports Council (“NSC”) since
1998, MAF has been instrumental in the development of Malaysian athletes over the years. Their
influence was evident at the recent Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, with the Malaysian
athletics contingent securing three commendable medals for the sport of athletics.
The partnership between Cahya Mata and MAF aims to:
● Champion athletes’ well-being: Prioritising athletes’ overall well-being and fostering
a comprehensive approach to sports and health.
● Empower with financial and resource backing: Both entities are determined to
financially back and sustain talented athletes, propelling them to reach the pinnacles
in their careers.
● Promote leadership and character: Emphasise on instilling leadership qualities and
character development in athletes, enabling them to maintain professionalism and
dominance throughout their careers.
● Scout and nurture young prodigies: Cahya Mata and MAF envision a future where
young athletic talents are identified early and nurtured towards professional
sporting careers.
YABhg. General Dato’ Seri Diraja Tan Sri (Dr.) Mohd Zahidi bin Haji Zainuddin (R), Group
Chairman of Cahya Mata, reinforced the significance of this collaboration: “Our partnership
reflects our belief in Malaysian athletes’ untapped potential. Our commitment is to ensure their
continuous growth and the harnessing of their potential, propelling them onto the international
stage and amplifying Malaysia’s achievements in the sport of athletics.”
The collective vision of both Cahya Mata and MAF is clear – to elevate Malaysia’s athletics as a
whole and invest in athletes, promising them unwavering support throughout their sporting
journey.
