KUCHING: Malaysia may have an adequate number of trained psychologists, but very few are equipped to handle the unique mental challenges faced by athletes, says veteran sports analyst, Datuk Pekan Ramli.
He said while the country produces many psychology graduates, sports psychology remains a niche field that requires specialised knowledge in athletic performance, high-pressure competition environments, and mental resilience unique to sports.
“Not every psychologist can serve in sports. Each sport and athlete faces different mental pressures, and these are totally different from the psychological issues faced by non-athletes,” he said.
Pekan stressed the importance of encouraging more students to specialise in sports psychology, suggesting that the government offer scholarships for advanced studies abroad in the field.
“Our long-term goal should be to build a strong pool of sports psychologists. Right now, we are still very much lacking,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted recently.
At present, Malaysia typically provides access to sports psychologists on a case-by-case basis, mostly during major competitions such as the SEA Games, Asian Games, or the Olympics.
Pekan believes this reactive approach is unsustainable in the long run.
“Not every athlete needs a psychologist full-time, but during high-stakes tournaments, it can make all the difference.
“For long-term athlete development, we need consistent psychological support,” he said.
Earlier this year, Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said Sarawak’s upcoming high-performance sports centre – aimed at helping athletes enhance their capabilities – is expected to be up and running this year.
Abdul Karim said the centre, with modern and specialised facilities, will be built at the Sarawak Sports Complex.
