Cycling icon Ng Joo Ngan will finally receive the full RM5,000 prize promised to him in 1970 when he was named Malaysia’s sportsman of the year.
Back then, he was given only RM500. The balance was said to have been diverted to the federation, and for 55 years the money never came.
Yesterday, that wrong was finally set right.
The Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF), led by Amarjit Singh Gill, has become the first sports body to make good on its debt.
In doing so, it has set a standard others can no longer ignore.
“Legends like Joo Ngan carried Malaysia’s name when resources were scarce and recognition was limited,” said Amarjit.
“If we cannot honour them properly now, what message are we sending to the younger generation?
“Treating our past athletes with dignity inspires future athletes to give their all for the country. Investing in integrity is investing in the future of sport.
“When young athletes see that those who built the foundation are respected, they will know that their sacrifices too will be remembered.”
Amarjit explained that the late MNCF secretary Shaharudin Jaffar had told Ng in 1970 he would receive RM500, with the rest channelled to the federation.
“With Shahruddin no longer alive, the details cannot be verified,” he said. “But in recognition of Joo Ngan’s contribution, and based on his representation in good faith, MNCF will extend the balance to him.
“This is not about paperwork. It is about doing the right thing,” added Amarjit, who is the son of Darshan Singh Gill, a former national and international administrator.
He said that the national sports council (NSC) could not have been consulted on the matter as it was only established in 1971, a year after Ng’s award.
A long wait ends
Ng’s voice trembled with emotion when asked what the repayment meant. “It is not the amount,” he said. “When you honour your word, you honour the nation.”
For Ng, the news is both vindication and relief. “Finally, after 55 years. Thank you MNCF, thank you FMT,” he said.
“I thought I would never see this day. This means so much, not just for me but for all who have served Malaysia selflessly.
“We gave our best years to the nation. What we ask in return is trust, fairness, and recognition. This gesture restores a little of that faith.”
Ng was clear that his repayment must be a beginning, not the end.
“I am grateful. But I also hope other associations will do the same for the athletes who are still waiting.
“We carried Malaysia on our shoulders. Now, Malaysia must carry its responsibility to us.”
A true champion
Before cycling became a serious sport in Malaysia, it was Ng Joo Ngan and Daud Ibrahim who wheeled the country into international recognition.
Ng represented Malaysia at the 1964 and 1968 Olympics. He won gold at the Asian Games and SEAP Games. His brother, Joo Pong, also rode for the nation.
To this day, Ng trains young riders, determined that the spirit of discipline and sacrifice endures.
“I want them to love the sport as I did,” he said. “And I want them to know that honesty matters in sport — on the track and off it.”
A contrast with others
The sincerity in Amarjit’s words stands in contrast to the responses elsewhere.
Hockey legend M Mahendran revealed he received just RM170 of his RM5,000 prize. Nine athletics icons never saw a cent. Bowling great JB Koo claimed his entire award was withheld. Badminton icon Sylvia Ng said she got nothing at all.
For now, badminton, bowling and athletics have pledged to investigate. Hockey has yet to respond.
Now, one broken promise has finally been mended. Cycling has shown the way.
The question is whether others will follow, or whether they will deepen the disgrace.
