KUALA LUMPUR — Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria has downplayed recent criticism surrounding OCM’s plan to relocate its headquarters to Bukit Jalil, describing the backlash as stemming from an “anonymous poison pen letter” with no basis.
The unsigned document, which resurfaced after allegedly first circulating earlier this year, questions the rationale behind OCM’s decision to vacate its long-standing headquarters at Wisma OCM, Jalan Hang Jebat, and construct a new RM93 million facility via a land swap deal with developer MRCB Berhad.
“This matter was briefed to all executive board members, and everyone clearly understands it,” Norza told Scoop when contacted today.
“This is indeed a poison pen letter by some quarters who just want to cause problems in the background.”
He said that while he typically avoids responding to such anonymous complaints, he felt it necessary to clarify the situation given the renewed attention.
“It is a direct land swap, and MRCB has agreed to taking over the existing land for the price of RM93 million,” he explained, adding that the widely-circulated RM132 million valuation refers to both the land and the Wisma OCM building itself.
“Obviously, when the developers take over, the building will mean nothing to them — they will demolish it.”
Norza also rejected suggestions that the move was motivated by personal ambition to leave behind a legacy.
“There’s nothing to do with me wanting to leave behind my legacy or anything of that sort,” he said firmly.
“This was discussed and approved by the board, and that is why Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh proceeded to bring the matter to Cabinet for approval.”
The new OCM headquarters, Olympic House, is slated to be constructed on a 5.3-acre plot in Bukit Jalil currently managed by the Malaysia Stadium Corporation (PSM), under a 30-year lease arrangement.
The first phase of the development is expected to be completed in time for the 2027 SEA Games, which Malaysia will host.
The plan has drawn scrutiny due to the strategic location and income-generating potential of the existing Wisma OCM, which includes office rentals, event halls and a hotel.
The poison pen letter also questioned the value and long-term sustainability of the move, but Norza insists the process has been transparent and properly deliberated. — June 16, 2025
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