Dr. Vellapandian takes helm as ISN’s new CEO

The National Sports Institute of Malaysia (ISN) has officially announced the appointment of YBrs. Dr. Vellapandian Ponnusamy as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective today. He succeeds En. Ahmad Faedzal Bin Md Ramli, whose tenure ended on February 24, 2025.

Dr. Vellapandian brings over two decades of experience in sports science, sports psychology, and athlete performance development. His extensive background in elite sports management and research positions him as a pivotal figure in shaping the future of Malaysian sports.

A Distinguished Career in Sports Science

Before taking on this new role, Dr. Vellapandian served as the CEO of the Institute for Youth Research Malaysia (IYRES) under the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) from 2019 to 2025. His prior contributions to ISN, where he worked from 2005 to 2019 in various capacities, further reinforce his expertise in high-performance sports. During his tenure, he held key roles such as Director of Sports Performance and Head of the Podium Program, which was instrumental in elevating Malaysia’s competitive standing in international sporting events.

With an academic foundation that includes a PhD in Sports Psychology from the University of Western Australia and postgraduate degrees in sports science from local institutions, Dr. Vellapandian’s scientific approach to athlete development is expected to enhance ISN’s strategic direction.

Contributions to the Olympic Movement

Dr. Vellapandian’s involvement in the Olympic Movement has been notable, particularly when he was appointed as the Deputy Chef de Mission for the Malaysian contingent at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta-Palembang. His experience in managing high-performance athletes and preparing them for elite competitions aligns well with ISN’s mission to advance Malaysia’s presence on the global sports stage.

His tenure at ISN previously saw significant advancements in sports technology, athlete conditioning programs, and research-driven performance enhancements. These contributions are expected to play a crucial role as he steps into the leadership position once again, driving innovation and excellence in Malaysian sports.

Transforming ISN for Future Success

Under Dr. Vellapandian’s leadership, ISN is anticipated to undergo strategic transformation, particularly in areas of sports science, performance technology, and athlete development. His expertise in integrating scientific methodologies into training programs could enhance Malaysia’s competitiveness in regional and international sports arenas.

The ISN has expressed confidence in his ability to lead the institute into a new era of innovation, aligning with Malaysia’s long-term aspirations of producing world-class athletes. His appointment marks a significant step towards reinforcing ISN’s role as a leading institution in sports science and elite athlete development in the country.