**SportSG Chief Alan Goh Champions a Holistic Approach to Hosting Sporting Events**
Sport Singapore’s Chief Executive Officer, Alan Goh, emphasized the significance of hosting sporting events in Singapore beyond just economic gains. In a recent interview with CNA, Mr. Goh highlighted that while profitability plays a role in selecting events, authorities also consider whether these events can inspire the next generation and provide competitive opportunities for local athletes.
**A Balanced Approach to Event Hosting**
Under Mr. Goh’s leadership, SportSG took over the ownership and management of the Singapore Sports Hub in December 2022, signaling a shift towards a more balanced and community-oriented approach. By terminating their public-private partnership with SportsHub Pte Ltd, SportSG aimed to prioritize a diverse range of events, including sports competitions, concerts, and community activities.
**Striking the Right Balance**
Mr. Goh emphasized the importance of finding a balance between hosting events that benefit Team Singapore while also catering to the local community’s interests. While major events like the World Aquatics Swimming World Cup and the World Chess Championship have graced Singapore’s shores, Mr. Goh stressed that not every event is pursued solely for monetary gains. Success, he noted, is measured by the level of participation and enjoyment that Singaporeans experience.
**Empowering Singapore’s Sporting Ecosystem**
In his role as SportSG’s CEO, Mr. Goh has worked towards addressing challenges within Singapore’s sporting ecosystem. Despite a declining population, efforts such as scholarships for student-athletes and CPF top-ups for SpexScholarship recipients aim to make a career in sports more appealing and sustainable. By fostering a supportive environment for athletes to pursue both academic and sporting aspirations, SportSG hopes to inspire future generations of champions.
**A Personal Touch**
Reflecting on his passion for sports and the positive response from Singaporeans to SportSG’s initiatives, Mr. Goh shared that his role has been both fulfilling and energizing. Despite societal biases towards academic pursuits, he remains committed to making sports a viable path for aspiring athletes. Through ongoing efforts to enhance support systems and opportunities, Mr. Goh envisions a future where Singaporeans come together to cheer for Team Singapore’s success.
By championing a holistic approach to event hosting and empowering Singapore’s sporting community, Alan Goh aims to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that nurtures talent and inspires future generations of athletes.