Accra:The Youth and Sports Ministry has urged Taekwondo Malaysia (TM) to prioritize virtual taekwondo in its future plans. Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari, the Youth and Sports Minister, emphasized that this discipline deserves more attention since no country has yet established dominance in the sport.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the minister's request came during a meeting with a delegation from TM, led by its president, Azizul Annuar Adenan. The discussions also covered the strategic direction of the governing body for the 2026-2030 period, including the development of para taekwondo, virtual taekwondo, and technical officials, as well as hosting international events in Malaysia.

Virtual taekwondo, a non-contact combat sport utilizing motion-tracking sensors attached to body parts like the thighs and shins, was featured at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Dr. Mohammed Taufiq expressed hope that TM would focus on this area, considering the new opportunities it presents for Malaysia.

Additionally, the minister expressed aspirations for taekwondo to become a significant medal contributor for Malaysia at the 2027 SEA Games. This event is scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Sarawak, Penang, and Johor from September 18 to 29. In the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand, the national taekwondo squad won one gold, one silver, and four bronze medals.