October16October 16, 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Malaysia’s beach volleyball athletes Cadence Goh Yu Heng and Ong Jing Yi joined the country’s delegation at the flag-handover ceremony for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on Thursday, marking another milestone in their preparations to represent the nation on the international stage.

Held at Menara KBS in Kuala Lumpur, the ceremony brought together government officials, sports leaders and young athletes ahead of the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.

Goh and Ong, who have qualified to represent Malaysia in beach volleyball, were among the athletes recognized during the ceremony, highlighting the country’s progress in developing young talent and expanding its presence in international beach volleyball competitions.

The event was attended by Malaysia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari; National Sports Council of Malaysia Director General Arrifin Mohd Ghani; and Olympic Council of Malaysia Secretary General Datuk Mohd Nasir Ali.

Also present were Olympic Council of Malaysia CEO Fong Wan Hor, General Manager Norhashimi Hussain, Izzat Danial, Chef de Mission Wong Weng Son, Muhammad Muazzam and Malaysia Beach Volleyball Chairman Hean Boon Yeow.

The presentation of the Jalur Gemilang, Malaysia’s national flag, symbolized the country’s support for its young athletes as they prepare to compete against emerging talents from around the world.

For Malaysian beach volleyball, the qualification of Goh and Ong represents an important achievement in the country’s junior development pathway and reflects the dedication of athletes, coaches and sporting organizations working to strengthen the sport.

Their participation in Dakar 2026 will provide an opportunity to gain valuable international experience, compete against leading youth teams and further develop their skills at one of the world’s most prominent multisport events for young athletes.

The ceremony also recognized the collective efforts of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the National Sports Council, the Olympic Council of Malaysia and national sporting bodies in preparing the country’s delegation for the Games.

The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will bring together young athletes from across the world in a celebration of sporting excellence, friendship and the Olympic values.

As Malaysia prepares for the Games, Goh and Ong will look to represent their country with pride while contributing to the continued growth and development of beach volleyball in Malaysia.

Their participation also highlights the importance of youth development programs in creating pathways for emerging athletes to progress from national competitions to the international stage.