Serdang, 9 February 2026 – The Sports Academy of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has welcomed Mr. Nakato Shinji from Japan to participate in the Japanese Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) Programme for a period of two (2) years at the Sports Academy.

According to the Prime Minister’s Department of Malaysia, the Japanese Volunteer Service under the JOCV scheme forms part of the Malaysia–Japan technical cooperation. In this regard, the volunteer is eligible for certain facilities and tax exemptions to support the implementation of his service during the assignment period.

Mr. Nakato Shinji will be attached to the Athlete and Staff Development Division and will be responsible for the following duties:

• Planning and implementing sports science–based physical training programmes to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury among UPM athletes.
• Conducting strength, power, weight training and mobility sessions in accordance with the specific requirements of each sport and athlete profile.
• Administering fitness assessments and monitoring physical performance using relevant data and fitness indicators.
• Analysing fitness assessment data and preparing performance reports to support team training planning.
• Assisting in the planning of integrated training periodisation in line with technical and tactical training as well as competition schedules.
• Actively participating in athlete development programmes, basic rehabilitation activities and sports programmes organised by the Sports Academy.

Prepare by,

Hjh. Rosiha Abdul Razak

Date of Input: 10/02/2026 | Updated: 10/02/2026 | zawinnadjah