Malaysia Utilizes SAI Thiruvananthapuram for Asian Games Training Camp

The Sports Authority of India's LNCPE Thiruvananthapuram centre recently hosted a month-long training camp for Malaysian athletes preparing for the Asian Games. This initiative, which concluded on September 10, involved middle and long-distance runners training under the guidance of coach Mohamed Azarudeen. The camp aimed to provide exposure to a competitive environment and foster collaboration between Malaysian and Indian athletes. Azarudeen emphasized the importance of training in India over European settings, highlighting the unique advantages of SAI facilities. This collaboration is expected to enhance the competitive standards for both nations ahead of the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 17, 2026, 00:29 IST

High-Performance Training Camp in India

The Sports Authority of India's (SAI) LNCPE Thiruvananthapuram facility served as a high-performance training venue for Malaysian athletes preparing for the Asian Games. This month-long training camp concluded on September 10, as detailed in a recent press release.

The camp featured two Malaysian middle and long-distance runners: Wan Muhammad Fazri, who specializes in the 800m, and Umar Osman, who competes in both the 400m and 800m events. They trained under the guidance of head coach Mohamed Azarudeen during this initiative organized by Malaysia Athletics.

SAI Centres as Global Training Hubs

This training camp is part of a broader initiative where international athletes have been utilizing SAI facilities in preparation for the upcoming Asian Games 2026, scheduled to take place in Aichi-Nagoya starting September 19. For instance, boxers from Nepal trained at the SAI Guwahati campus, while Iranian kabaddi players used the SAI Sonepat campus.

These training camps highlight the increasing significance of SAI centres as high-performance hubs that support international athletes in their quest for excellence in major competitions. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) had requested SAI LNCPE in July to assist with the Malaysian delegation's accommodation and training needs at no cost to SAI.

A Coach's Return and Goals

For Malaysian athletics coach Azarudeen, choosing India for training was a natural decision. A former Indian athlete and national team member, he had previously worked with SAI Bangalore before joining Malaysian Athletics.

Azarudeen shared, "I was part of the Indian national team from 2020 to 2025. After resigning from SAI Bangalore, I joined Malaysian Athletics. It’s not surprising for me to be back in India. I know our facilities are excellent, and this is a great opportunity for Malaysian Athletics to gain exposure here."

He emphasized that the primary goal of bringing his athletes to India was to provide them with a stronger competitive training environment and the chance to train alongside Indian athletes.

Gaining Competitive Advantage

Azarudeen noted that exposure to the competitive landscape in India is more beneficial for his athletes than training in a European setting. He stated, "This is crucial for our preparation for the Asian Games. I didn’t opt for European countries because the Asian Games are our top priority."

The camp also allowed Malaysian athletes to compete during their stay in India, including participation in the World Athletics Continental Tour – Silver Level Meeting in Bhubaneswar on August 22. Azarudeen remarked, "Competing in India enables them to experience the local competition level, which is significant as India has been very successful in the Asian Games."

Positive Feedback on Training Environment

The Malaysian athletes appreciated the training environment at SAI Thiruvananthapuram, which Azarudeen described as particularly valuable due to its history of nurturing Olympians who have represented India at the highest levels. He stated, "SAI Thiruvananthapuram is unique. It’s important to recognize that Olympians trained here, making it a special place. I consider it a fortunate training centre."

Azarudeen also highlighted the potential for increased sporting collaboration between Malaysia and India, stating, "The shared culture between Malaysian and Indian Athletics has been memorable. This experience will be a lifelong lesson for them, guiding them toward success. That’s why I brought them here, and training here is always special." He added that exchange programs could enhance competitive standards for both nations.