Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, May 21, 2026: Dr. Norza Zakaria, President of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, received a courtesy call from a delegation of the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) on Thursday, May 21 at the OCM offices.
Dr. Norza also serves as President of the South East Asian Games Federation and OCA Vice President for Southeast Asia.
The ISTAF delegation was headed by its Secretary General, Mr. Abdul Halim Abdul Kader, who also serves as President of the Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF) and Deputy President of the Asian Chinlone Federation.
The discussion focused on collaboration between the OCM, SEA Games Federation and ISTAF in promoting the development of sepaktakraw and chinlone throughout the Southeast Asian region.
“On behalf of ISTAF, I pledge our full support towards the development of sepaktakraw in Malaysia,” said Mr. Abdul Halim Abdul Kader.
“ISTAF has also committed to sponsoring all equipment required for the sepaktakraw competition in the upcoming 34th SEA Games Malaysia 2027, amounting to more than RM 1 million,” he added.
Dr. Norza commented: “As Vice President of the OCA for the Southeast Asia Zone, President of the SEA Games Federation for the term 2025-2027 and President of NOC Malaysia, I would like to express our highest appreciation to ISTAF and ASTAF for their continued support towards the development of sepaktakraw across the Southeast Asia region, especially in Malaysia.
“We look forward to further collaboration in elevating both sepaktakraw and chinlone to greater heights,” he added.
Chinlone is a traditional sport and performance art originating from Myanmar that combines elements of sport, dance and teamwork.