Kuala Lumpur: Dr. P. Vellapandian has been appointed as the new chief executive officer (CEO) of the National Sports Institute (NSI), effective today. He takes over from Ahmad Faedzal Md Ramli, whose term of service concluded yesterday after he held the position since February 25, 2019. The announcement was made by NSI Board chairman Datuk Marina Chin at NSI, Bukit Jalil.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, during a media conference, Marina explained that the selection process for the new CEO was open, allowing anyone to apply for the vacant position. Dr. Vellapandian was chosen based on his extensive experience spanning over two decades in sports science, sports psychology, and athlete performance research and development.

Dr. Vellapandian, aged 56, has previously served as the CEO of the Institute for Youth Research Malaysia (IYRES) under the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS). He has also held significant roles within NSI, including director of the Sports Performance Division and head of the Podium Programme. His academic qualifications include a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sports Psychology from the University of Western Australia, along with a master's and bachelor's degree in sports science from local universities.

Marina highlighted that Dr. Vellapandian's expertise in developing high-performance athletes and managing elite sports programs is expected to propel NSI to new heights, supporting the excellence of national sports.