THANK YOU: National squash queen, Datuk Nicol Ann David receives a souvenir from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT)Vice Canselor Prof Dr Azizi Deraman (second right) at ‘Meet Datuk Nicol Ann David session’ here yesterday. — Bernama photo
KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) will work closely with the Higher Education Ministry to bid for the World University Squash Championships in 2016.
UMT Vice Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Aziz Deraman said for a start, the UMT would seek an allocation from the ministry to upgrade two squash courts worth RM1 million at its campus in Kuala Terengganu.
“Since we have been chosen by the Higher Education Ministry to be the centre of excellence, we are striding towards that objective by upgrading the facilities to stage world class events.
“We will also seek allocation from the ministry for a glass court so as to be equipped with the latest facilities,” he said after picking world squash champion Datuk Nicol Ann David as the icon for higher education here yesterday.
Dr Aziz said the university would also ensure a pool of talented players for the next 10 to 15 years.
Meanwhile, Nicol called on university students to be active in sports including squash in ensuring its success in Malaysia.
On her appointment as the Higher Education Institution Icon, Nicol – a six-time world champion – said she was happy with the appointment and would work harder to promote squash among university students.
“I feel great that I can do something for the local universities…I hope more and more students will take up squash,” said Nicol.
Nicol will defend her title in the CIMB Nicol David KL Open Squash Championships beginning Wednesday at National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil.
She has won the tournament previously known as the CIMB KL Open Championships for six times – 2002, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2011. — Bernama