Ramlan thrilled to be back ‘home’ – as CEO of NSI

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Dr Ramlan Abdul Aziz is delighted to be back “home” – as chief executive officer of the National Sports Institute (NSI).

It was just a year ago that he was removed from that position – allegedly due to some management issues.

But new Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin obviously sees it differently, re-appointing Dr Ramlan to post.

And Dr Ramlan, who has a wealth of knowledge in sports science, is glad that he managed to stay positive during those turbulent times.

Dr Ramlan, who was replaced by Ahmad Shapawi Ismail as the CEO of NSI became the special advisor to the previous Sports Minister – Datuk Seri Shabery Cheek.

In fact, he enjoyed the experience of being an advisor to Shabery, saying that he had gained valuable insight and experience over the last one year.

“I have a better insight now after working in the Ministy. The experience is valuable as now I know what works and what doesn’t in the Ministry as far as their partnership with the NSI is concerned.
“I have made friends and now I will nurture these new ties,” said Dr Ramlan.

But now that he’s back, he can’t thank Khairy enough.

“Of course, I’m happy with the Minister’s decision to entrust me with this job.

“I am thankful and grateful to him for this great opportunity to serve in the NSI once again,” said Dr Ramlan.
Dr Ramlan was also appreciative of Shapawi’s efforts in keeping the “motor running” in the NSI since he left.

“Under Shapawi, the general direction of the NSI has not changed. He maintained a great measure of continuity and stability and it’ll be easier for me to just get back into the picture,” he said.

With the strong support from the new and vibrant Sports Minister, Dr Ramlan has vowed to work together with the National Sports Council (NSC) and the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) to serve the coaches and athletes in the best possible way through various areas of sports science.
“I’m glad that Khairy has stressed the importance of NSI’s role.

“This will spur us to approach every aspect of the sports science in the best possible way – without having to deal with any limitations and hindrances,” said Dr Ramlan,

For the record, Shapawi has been promoted to Sports Commissioner, replacing Mohd Yasin Mohd Salleh, whose two-year contract expired in April.



THE STAR