Many were elated with Khairy Jamaluddin's appointment as the new youth and sports minister, calling it a breath of fresh air.

Khairy replaces Ahmad Shabery Cheek who was named communication and multimedia minister, as announced by Prime Minister Najib Razak in Putrajaya yesterday.

While the tech-savvy Oxford graduate is perceived to be the best man for the job, it remains to be seen if Khairy can tackle the many issues the often crop up in the local sports scene — from little Napoleons within the ministry and organisations related to the ministry to the often strained relationship between the ministry, national sports associations (NSAs) and the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM).

There also seems to be too much of dependency on government funds especially by NSAs.

Khairy, however, prefers to take one step at a time.

"It’s been barely an hour (since the announcement). You got to give me some time," said Khairy in jest.

"I have heard (of many problems) but I am open to ideas. I would prefer to listen and observe in the next week or two before I decide (on matters)."

Khairy admitted he will not have it his way at all times and would have to play the diplomatic card especially when dealing with NSAs.

NONE "We have to focus on what we can do. Let’s not try to be overboard with our ideas. I believe the objective is for long term development."

Khairy experienced administrating a football club first hand through the now defunct UPB-MyTeam before he was named FA of Malaysia (FAM) deputy president in 2007. Khairy decided against standing for election in 2010 after serving FAM for only one term.

"Football is a big minefield. I am not saying I am going to play safe but I don’t expect miracles overnight. I would rather build a relationship with the NSAs and see how we can work best."

Khairy is also seen as the face of Malaysian youth and is now tasked to change the perception of young Malaysians, many of whom had voted in the recent general election, about the government.

- The Malay Mail