Mariappan: Pension scheme will help

PARALYMPIAN P. Mariappan's sacrifices for the country have already cost him two jobs.

P. Mariappan has represented the country in six Paralympics since 1987. — Pic: AIZUDDIN SAAD

Mariappan, who has a passion for powerlifting and an eagerness to pursue glory for Malaysia, relies on a monthly centralised training allowance of RM500 and a RM230 contribution from the Social Welfare Department to make ends meet.

That is an unimaginable sum for Mariappan to support his jobless wife and three children.

His plight is among those highlighted in the National Athletes' Charity Foundation's (Yakeb) 1Ringgit 1Malaysia donation drive.

Mariappan said he hopes for a pension scheme for paralympians which will allow him to offer continued focus on his sport.

"I think we paralympians deserve this pension scheme too, same as other national athletes," said Mariappan, who has represented Malaysia in six Paralympics since 1987.

His bronze medal in the 1988 Seoul Paralympics launched his name into orbit as among the top powerlifters in the world.

He followed that with another bronze medal in the 1992 Barcelona Paralympics. In in the Beijing Paralympics last year, he set a Southeast Asian record in the 67.5kg category. He was also the country's flag bearer at the Asean Para Games in Korat, Thailand two years ago.

Those who wish to contribute to the 1Ringgit 1Malaysia campaign can send their donations to Yakeb's Maybank account number 564847005696 or SMS YAKEB1 to donate RM1, YAKEB2 for RM2, YAKEB5 for RM5 and YAKEB10 for RM10 and send to 33898. Each SMS costs RM0.50.

For enquiries, contact 03-89964841/4844 or log on to www.yakeb.org.my.

• Watch BersamaMu-Wira Sukan, Anda Tetap Di Hati on TV3 at 9.30pm tonight.

- NST