The government's decision to proceed with the High Performance Training Centre (HPTC) in Brickendonbury, outside London, has not won over critics.

Gerakan Youth vice-chairperson S Paranjothy, who had earlier counter-proposed that the sports academy be set up in Cameron Highlands instead, said it was "stupid and lame" to send athletes to be trained in Britain.

When contacted, he said performance is not only related to adequate training but to building a strong mentality among athletes.

"In the 1960s and 1970s, athletes did not have professional coaches or centres to help them perform better. Yet, they did very well. So, why is it now so vital to set up a training centre in London?" he asked.

He said athletes bent on performing well in international events must be disciplined and follow the instructions of coaches.

"For instance, athletes are told to strictly observe the (recommended) diet even during festive seasons in order to maintain their body weight. However, many do not do so," he said.

The sports academy project, initially said to about half a billion ringgit, would be a waste of taxpayers' money, said Paranjothy, adding that the money could be used to offset the cost of subsidising fuel prices.

'Justify decision'

Kota Melaka parliamentarian Wong Nai Chee pointed out that the youths and sports ministry had not given sufficient reasons for establishing the HPTC in Brickendonbury.

He said such justification is necessary because it would be expensive to maintain the academy if it is set up in Britain.

"Will it be effective? Will the training provided develop the skills of athletes and help them perform well in international events? All this has yet to be justified," he said.

Bukit Bintang parliamentarian Fong Kui Lun said Malaysia is a better choice of location than Britain, as it would save public funds.

"The youth and sports ministry can hire the best coaches and club managers to come to Malaysia and train athletes. I will raise the issue in Parliament," he added.

The Dewan Rakyat, which is on a break for the month of Ramadhan, will reconvene in early November.