THE Penang government is taking proactive steps to digitise its sports sector, as part of a broader initiative to improve efficiency, transparency, and participation in sports administration.
State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen explained that the digitisation push goes beyond just promoting sports on social media platforms.
“It includes the adoption of technology in organisational management, live broadcasting of sporting events, and utilising modern tools to evaluate athlete performance.
“These measures aim to ensure that sports organisations in Penang are managed efficiently and transparently, with broad stakeholder involvement,” Gooi (PH-Padang Lalang) told the State Legislative Assembly during his winding-up speech at the State Assembly Building in Light Street today.
He added that effective governance and transparent management would help curb abuse of power and corruption in the sports industry, thereby increasing confidence among potential stakeholders and encouraging continued investment in Penang’s sports sector.
“Furthermore, the Penang government maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of disruption in the development of sports within the state.
“In line with the Safe Sports Code recommended by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Olympic Agenda 2025, I urge all involved, directly or indirectly, to foster a safe sporting environment free from abuse, harassment, and violence,” said Gooi.
Penang, he emphasised, places strong importance on creating a sporting ecosystem that is safe and nurturing, particularly in the educational, athletic, and social domains.
“This commitment helps ensure the sustainability and integrity of the sports sector, while promoting a healthy image to the public,” he added.
Touching on grassroots football, Gooi highlighted Penang FC’s collaborations with talent development institutions, including the Akademi Wira Muda (for under-10 players), Sekolah Sukan Mutiara Impian (for under-17 athletes), and relevant District Training Centres (PLDs).
“These partnerships reflect Penang FC’s long-term commitment to comprehensive grassroots development,” he noted.
Shifting to public health, Gooi also addressed the issue of vape and electronic cigarettes, reaffirming the Penang government’s firm stance on the matter.
“We support the ban on the use of e-cigarettes or vape products, particularly among minors,” he said, adding that the state does not encourage the sale of smoking-related products, aligning with its goal to safeguard public health.
“The state government is currently reviewing enforcement mechanisms and designing strategies to reduce vape usage across Penang.
“This issue must be approached strategically to prevent the emergence of illicit markets and smuggling activities,” Gooi warned.
The regulation of vape and electronic cigarette supply falls under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 [Act 852], which is currently in the product registration phase. Enforcement is set to begin on October 1, 2025.
Gooi also assured that if the enforcement of Act 852 does not yield positive results, the state government is prepared to consider a full ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes or vape products to safeguard the health of Penangites.
Story by Riadz Akmal