THE 2024 Paris Games is perceived as an inspiration for sports by Malaysians and badminton is the most anticipated event among locals, revealed a study by market research company Ipsos.
Badminton holds a special place in the hearts of Malaysians. About 58% or six out of 10 Malaysians are interested in badminton, far surpassing the 33-country average and many other countries. Malaysians show a significantly high interest in badminton, second only to Indonesians.
The 2024 Paris Games, which kicked off last Friday and will run until Aug 11, will be the first Games after the pandemic.
About 64% or two out of three Malaysians say they are interested in the Games, much higher than average of all countries surveyed.
The excitement is high among Asian countries and a majority in all countries say that it should go ahead despite world’s economy and wars. Interestingly, the excitement is lower among the citizens in the current and previous host countries – France and Japan, respectively.
The Paris Games is not only a sporting event for Malaysians. Eight out of 10 Malaysians view it as an opportunity of unity, pride and an inspiration for future generations.
“Overall, the 2024 Paris Games has a positive and unifying effect among Malaysians. Excitement among the people is high and it should not be stopped by the wars and (political) conflicts,” said Ipsos.
