Kuala Lumpur: The National Sports Council (NSC) has revised its policy to remove a clause that previously required pregnant athletes to be dropped from training programs. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh announced the change, explaining that pregnant athletes will now be able to continue their training based on their capabilities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the previous contract stipulated that pregnant athletes must cease training. The recent amendment now allows pregnant athletes to train, with the understanding that their training regimen will be tailored to their individual capabilities. Hannah Yeoh emphasized that the NSC will evaluate each case individually, ensuring the policy is more accommodating to women.

She provided an example, stating that an archer who becomes pregnant may have different training needs compared to athletes in other disciplines. This case-by-case assessment is part of a broader effort to create a more inclusive environment for women athletes.

Further improvements to the contract include the introduction of seven days of annual leave and seven days of emergency leave, along with seven days of paternity leave. These changes aim to enhance the support system for women athletes, facilitating their continued participation in national sports even as they manage family responsibilities.