Dubai:Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, the Minister of Sports, welcomed UAE national badminton player Riyan Malhan upon his return from the 4th Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, where he secured the UAE's first gold medal in the history of its participation in the Youth Olympics.

According to Wam, the reception for Malhan was attended by notable figures including Noura Al Jasmi, President of the UAE Badminton Federation; Saeed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council; and Safa Taryam, Chief Executive Officer of Elite Sport UAE.

Al Falasi extended his congratulations to Malhan, his family, and his coaches for this historic achievement. He acknowledged the coordinated efforts of the National Olympic Committee, the UAE Badminton Federation, and the technical and coaching teams in nurturing Malhan's talents. Al Falasi highlighted the importance of providing resources necessary for athletes to develop their abilities to the highest competitive levels.

He emphasized the UAE's commitment to investing in sporting talent as part of the National Sports Strategy 2031, which aims to identify and develop talent from an early stage through school and university sports. He noted that this strategy provides clear pathways for athletes' development and preparation through specialized programs to ensure they reach elite levels.

Al Falasi also pointed out the significance of recent achievements by UAE athletes, underscoring the importance of continuing investments in this system to sustain a UAE presence on the podium. He mentioned the goal of expanding the pool of athletes capable of competing for continental and international medals and ensuring readiness for success at future Olympic Games and international championships.

The Ministry of Sports, under the National Sports Strategy 2031, is working to develop an integrated competitive sports ecosystem. This involves collaboration with sports federations, educational institutions, and sports entities across the UAE to link broader participation with talent development, specialized training, and elite performance sports.