Kuala Lumpur, 29 May 2025 – The Institut Sukan Negara (ISN) was honoured to host a delegation from the Japan Sport Association (JSPO) for a strategic networking and knowledge-sharing meeting aimed at exploring collaborative opportunities in grassroots and talent development in sports.
The distinguished JSPO delegation comprised Mr. Fumiaki Iwata (Managing Director), Mr. Hiroshi Aono, Mr. Motoaki Sakai, and Ms. Asuka Nagano. Representing ISN were Dr. Vellapandian Ponnusamy (Chief Executive Officer), Dr. Yeo Wee Kian (Director, Research and Innovation Division), Mr. Mohd Zaid Bin Mohd Ghazali (Head for TID Centre, Research and Innovation Division) , and Ms. Rajeswari Raman (Centre for TID, Research and Innovation Division).
The meeting featured a detailed presentation by JSPO on the Active Child Program (ACP) – a nationwide initiative designed to instill the values of physical activity and healthy living among children. Under the broader vision of “Sports for All”, JSPO champions the creation of a safe, inclusive, and lifelong sporting environment across all age groups in Japan, from children to senior citizens.
In return, ISN shared its current strategies and ongoing initiatives in Talent Identification and Development (TID), with a focus on nurturing young sporting talents from the grassroots level using data-driven and science-based approaches.
Both organisations expressed mutual interest in continuing discussions to explore potential joint ventures and partnerships, particularly in the area of talent development. The dialogue highlighted the shared commitment of both countries to building sustainable sports ecosystems and promoting active lifestyles among their populations.
This engagement marks another significant step in ISN’s international collaboration efforts, reinforcing its vision to advance sports excellence through global partnerships and knowledge exchange.
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