KUALA LUMPUR – National athletes have been urged to adapt to Glasgow’s time zone as quickly as possible upon arriving in Scotland, with team officials warning that overcoming jet lag could prove crucial to Malaysia’s medal hopes at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Chef de Mission Datuk Awalan Abdul Aziz said athletes, particularly those arriving just a day or two before their events, must immediately adjust their sleeping schedules to local time to minimise the effects of jet lag.
He stressed that the remaining days before competition should be used wisely to ensure they are physically and mentally ready to perform at their best.
“I’ve advised them to adapt as quickly as possible, especially those arriving close to their competition dates, perhaps just two days beforehand. They need to adjust to the local time as soon as they can,” he told reporters at a press conference in Glasgow today.
Awalan said months of preparation would count for little if athletes neglected recovery, fitness and overall wellbeing in the final lead-up to competition.
“We’ve undergone a lengthy preparation period for these Commonwealth Games.
“It is vital that they maintain peak fitness, stay healthy and are fully prepared when competition begins,” he said.
He added that the management team would continue monitoring the athletes throughout the Games to ensure they remained in peak condition.
Malaysia have sent a 59-member contingent to Glasgow with a target of five gold, two silver and four bronze medals.
The nation’s strongest medal prospects are expected to come from weightlifting, track cycling, lawn bowls, judo, powerlifting and para athletics. – July 22, 2026