Malaysia has Become Good Host for International Sports Events - Deputy PM

KUALA LUMPUR, June 25 (Bernama) -- The large number of international participants taking part in the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2012 proves that Malaysia has become a good host for international sporting events. Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said on Sunday this also indicated that foreigners were comfortable and confident in the way sporting events were organised in the country. Muhyiddin said this after flagging of 28,000 participants of the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2012 near the National Monument, here. From the number, about 1,000 particiants were from foreign countries including Kenya, United Kingdom, Sweden, Switzerland, France and Singapore. "I see a lot of young Malaysians today and this is the best way to show to the foreigners and also the world how strong young Malaysians are united as one. "This type of event is really significant for our country," he said. Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the marathon was a good way of promoting Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia as a venue for international tournaments. "It shows to the outside world that Malaysia has the capability to organise sporting events of international standard. "An international event such as this also gives Malaysia the opportunity to demonstrate the friendly attitude of the people here and the peace and progress achieved by the country," he added. -- BERNAMA