SHAH ALAM - Malaysians should embrace all sports, including those often overlooked, like lawn bowls, recognising their inherent value and potential.
World no 1 lawn bowler Nor Farah Ain Abdullah challenges the perception that lawn bowls is an easy or insignificant sport.
"People say it's easy, or not popular. But try it. You'll understand the strategy and focus required.
"Even though it looks calm, our minds are working hard. No sport is truly easy. Why not try lawn bowls, just as people are open to new sports like Pickleball?" she said during the Sinar Daily Sports Matters podcast, which aired yesterday.
Farah contrasted the reception of lawn bowls overseas with its perception in Malaysia.
"In January, I visited a sports facility in Hopetown. While some were dismissive, others were incredibly supportive. They'd say, 'You're from Malaysia?
"I thought you could win!' They were encouraging, even after a loss, offering congratulations and well wishes," she said.
She urged Malaysians to adopt this supportive mindset, abandoning the tendency to dismiss sports like lawn bowls.
The Malaysian lawn bowls champion believes athletic performance is key to promoting the sport.
"Even a bronze medal raises Malaysia's profile and introduces the game to more people," she added.
Farah also encouraged athletes and coaches to utilise social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram to increase visibility.
"The older generation's lack of tech-savviness hindered promotion. Now, social media offers opportunities to showcase the game and discover new talent," she said.
In Malaysia, lawn bowls talent is often discovered in schools through open clinics and talent searches.
"Teachers bring their students to these clinics. The minimum starting age is primary school," she said.
Farah hoped Malaysians would recognise lawn bowls as a sport worthy of investment.
"Changing perceptions, increasing exposure, and improving accessibility are crucial for promotion.
"Malaysians need to appreciate the dedication and hard work required to excel," she said.