Strengthening the Programme to shape a better outcome

Strengthening the Programme to shape a better outcome

As introduced earlier by the delegation of Timor-Leste, the regional training centre will be

implemented to upskill novice coaches from different parts of ASEAN and nurture them to an

experienced elite coach.

A short recap about this program: Coaches of different backgrounds from different ASEAN countries will be gathering together to train and improve their coaching skills. While the program presents strong alignment with the goal of high-quality coaches all over ASEAN countries, certain implementation gaps may limit its overall impact if not addressed immediately, limiting the growth of certain coaches from non-English speaking countries, like

Brunei.

In order for this program to run smoothly, country representative coaches from ASEAN

would have to collaborate, highlighting the importance of strong communication abilities.

Language barriers

A key concern that has been highlighted by the delegate of Borneo Bulletin is as such,

“Since the regional training centre gathers representative coaches from all over the world, how are the coaches able to communicate and learn as effectively with the language barrier and conflicts of interest?” “We have made plans to cooperate with multiple non-government organisations to ensure our coaches are equipped with basic knowledge of English to allow for easier communication between coaches from different ASEAN countries,” the delegate of Timor-Leste said.

Having effective communication between countries is of utmost importance and a key

factor that can make or break the ties between ASEAN countries. Even with the help of a

universal language, such as English, it would be tough for coaches to communicate with each other to train and learn together.

Brunei, with the official language of Malay, may struggle with the language barrier between coaches from different countries and backgrounds, potentially hindering the full success of this regional coaching program as confusion strikes between the coaches. With the initiative taken by the delegate of Timor-Leste to engage with non-government organisations, a smooth flow of communication must be achieved through cooperation from the different ASEAN countries' coaches for the overall success of the program.

Money management concerns

For the programme to go in order, adequate funding is necessary. With the generous support from multiple country delegates, sufficient financial benefits have been provided to allow for the smooth operations of the programme.

“How will the council keep management transparent? What are the ways the

council is managing the funds?” Concerns regarding the transparency of fund management have been brought up by the delegate of the Jakarta Post.

With a large pool of funds, corruption may be inevitable. Many are concerned about

whether or not the funds will be used appropriately. In the long run, this would erode trust

between the states, hindering effective decision-making and making the practice unsustainable and costing countries unnecessary time and money.

Where does the funding go?

The project relies heavily on funding from countries with strong investors, such as the

United States of America, Japan, and China. However, citizens of the countries are worried about the high cost and wonder if spending government money on helping ASEAN countries develop sports is truly the best way to go about things.

Engaging foreign coaches, including transportation and accommodation fees, will soon

add up. It is believed that this sum of money could be better spent investing in a more

sustainable economic development of the ASEAN countries, or even spent on the development of their own country. However, the countries have assured that this will be money well spent.

The funding allows the multi-tiered coaching program to be beneficial through equipping

coaches and athletes with more advanced skills and friendly competitions. Besides being a

great learning opportunity for all athletes and coaches, it can foster good domestic ties

between countries, leading to more positive relations between countries.

To maximise the programme’s effectiveness, potential areas of concern such as inclusivity and transparency warrant closer review and development. In order to reach the full potential of the multitiered coaching program, these oversights should be discussed once more.

Written by Tiana Wong, Jezelle Beh, and Rachel Teng Jin Ying