Kuala lumpur: Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari has pledged to drive the ministry towards excellence and distinction, introducing the JUARA approach to strengthen youth and sports development.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Taufiq, appointed in the Cabinet reshuffle of the MADANI government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, said the initiative reflects his commitment to delivering on the trust placed in him. He explained that 'JUARA' represents key values, with 'J' referring to identity (jati diri), 'U' to excellence, 'A' to being active, 'R' to being relevant and responsive, and the final 'A' to being aggressive.
Dr Taufiq elaborated that excellence involves striving to outperform in every competition. Being active is about nurturing more youths to participate in sports and leadership programmes. Relevance and responsiveness involve staying in tune with current developments and responding to current issues, while sports must remain competitive globally. Being aggressive means moving swiftly, proactively, and decisively.
He shared these insights in an exclusive interview with Bernama led by Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj at his office recently. Dr Taufiq also emphasized the crucial role of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in shaping the nation's future, countering perceptions of it being a junior ministry.
He highlighted the critical nature of the youth portfolio, pointing out that young people are the nation's future leaders. He also described sports as a key national asset and a source of pride, safeguarding athletes' welfare and enabling them to achieve success that honors Malaysia.
Dr Taufiq noted the unifying power of sports among Malaysians of all races, backgrounds, and religions. Reflecting on his appointment on Dec 16 last year, he recalled the surprise of receiving a call from the Prime Minister about two hours before the Cabinet reshuffle announcement, which led to his immediate travel from Sungai Petani to Kuala Lumpur for the swearing-in the following day.
In the reshuffle, Dr Taufiq took over from Hannah Yeoh, who was reassigned as Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories).