Glasgow, Scotland, July 24, 2026: Ahead of the opening ceremony of the XXIII Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026, Olympic Council of Malaysia President Dr. Norza Zakaria met with members of the Malaysian contingent at the Village Hotel Glasgow on the morning of Thursday, July 23 to deliver an inspiring and motivational address.
Dr. Norza, who is also President of the Commonwealth Sports Malaysia, President of the South East Asian Games Federation and OCA Vice President for the Southeast Asia Zone, gave his rallying speech ahead of the CWG, which will run from July 23 to August 2.
The Malaysian contingent present comprised the Chef de Mission, members of the secretariat, athletes and team officials from lawn bowls, basketball, gymnastics, para bowls, para powerlifting and para wheelchair basketball.
In his address, Dr. Norza encouraged the athletes and officials to embrace the honour and responsibility of representing Malaysia on the international stage.
"Never doubt your ability or why you are here representing Malaysia. You carry the hopes and aspirations of 34 million Malaysians back home. Go out there, compete with courage and fight with dignity," Dr. Norza said.
"Do not be afraid of your opponents when you step on to the field of play. Remember that each of you has earned your place here because you are among the heroes of our nation."
He also acknowledged the leadership of the Chef de Mission, Mr. Awalan Abdul Aziz, President of the Malaysian Lawn Bowls Federation, President of the Asian Lawn Bowls Federation and Regional Ambassador for Asia of World Bowls, for his unwavering commitment to maintaining the Malaysian contingent's high morale, unity and fighting spirit.