Malaysian student in Paris making significant behind-scenes impact on national Olympic athletes
Published on: Saturday, August 03, 2024
By: Jessie Lee
Serving as a liaison officer, Renee Koe acts as the crucial link between the Malaysian delegation and their hosts in France, managing logistics, coordinating food deliveries and facilitating communication. (Renee Koe pic)
Kota Kinabalu: Malaysian student Renee Koe is making a significant impact behind the scenes at the Paris 2024 Olympics, ensuring that the Malaysian team’s experience in the French capital runs smoothly.
Serving as a liaison officer, Koe acts as the crucial link between the Malaysian delegation and their hosts in France, managing logistics, coordinating food deliveries and facilitating communication.
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Koe’s involvement with the Malaysian Olympic team began when she learned of an opportunity through the Education and Training Counsellor Office of the Public Service Department of Malaysia in Paris.
“I thought it would be awesome to wrap up my time in France by supporting the Malaysian team at the Paris Olympics 2024,” Koe said to Daily Express.
After submitting her resume, she was thrilled to be selected for the role.
During the athletes’ training period, Koe’s innovative approach to morale boosting stood out.
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Unable to meet the athletes in person due to their busy schedules, she came up with the idea of writing cheering notes for them to read at every meal.
“This way, as they fuel up, they will have little reminders that we’re always cheering them on and having their back every step of the way,” Koe said.
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The athletes’ appreciation of the cheering notes added to the fulfilling nature of her work.
“It has been such a rewarding experience,” she said.
Among the many highlights of her role, Koe recalled the thrilling atmosphere at Arena Porte de la Chapelle, where she cheered on the badminton players.
“The ambiance in the arena was contagious and being part of that supportive crowd was truly moving and unforgettable,” she said.
Behind the scenes, Koe observed that many impactful moments arose from the small details.
“Whether it’s writing cheering notes or helping balance training, physiotherapy, competition, and personal life, every little effort contributes to the athletes’ achievement and well-being,” Koe said.
Her experience has been a mix of highs and lows but remains deeply satisfying both personally and professionally.
“It gives me a bit of a lift to see everything comes together for the athletes and their goals,” she said.
For those aspiring to work in sports management or with an Olympic team, Koe advised gaining a solid educational foundation, seeking out internships or volunteer opportunities for hands-on experience and building a network of professionals and mentors.
“Be passionate and ready to work extra hard, as the job can be demanding and fast changing,” she said.
As the Paris 2024 Olympics continued, Koe’s role highlighted the often-overlooked but vital contributions that support staff made to the success and well-being of athletes.
Koe emphasised that supporting athletes and witnessing their success on the world stage was the ultimate reward.
Reflecting on her experience, Koe shared a message for supporters and fans of the Malaysian Olympic team.
“Your enthusiasm and encouragement mean the world to our athletes during their ups and downs," she said.
“Every cheer, every message, and every comment of support boosts their confidence and brings them closer to their goals."
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