HUMBLED: Pandelela (centre), flanked by ministry staff, is honoured at her appointment as its Young Women's Icon. On her left (in brown) is ministry secretary general Datuk Noorul Ainur Muhd Nur.KUALA LUMPUR: She’s already a darling in the hearts of Malaysians after her remarkable bronze medal achievement in the London Olympics.

But now, local diving darling Pandelela Rinong has a bigger responsibility on her shoulders – being an icon to young Malaysian women.

The 19-year-old has been appointed the Young Women’s Icon for the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development.

In her role, the Sarawak-born lass will visit schools and campuses in the Peninsula and East Malaysia to speak to students on her experiences and motivate Malaysian youngsters to help them fulfil their potential.

Ministry secretary general Datuk Noorul Ainor Muhd Nur said the appointment was an apt one, as Pandelela personified the spirit of young Malaysian women and is someone that youths look up to as a source of inspiration.

“She is already a role model to the younger generation. Her feats have inspired many and she showed that with hard work, discipline and determination, one can achieve greatness.

“With the social ills affecting youths today, we hope that someone like her can show that there is no need to get involved in unhealthy activities and instead, focus on one’s goals,” she told Malaysian Digest.

Pandelela’s appointment took place at a simple ceremony held at the ministry’s headquarters in Putrajaya today.

Noorul said she also reminded Pandelela that the athlete owed her achievements to her parents, who had sacrificed much for her.

“Her parents exemplary, they are the epitome of what Malaysian parents should be. They went through great difficulty to ensure their children’s success.

“This is why they too will accompany her during her programmes, as they were a huge part of her success as well,” said Noorul, adding that the tours will be tailored around Pandelela’s schedule.

Pandelela, meanwhile, said she was humbled and excited at the appointment and considered it a great honour.

“I’m still young and have a lot to learn. I hope that I will be given the opportunity to learn from any mistakes I make,” she said.

She advised youths not to easily give up in any tasks or challenges they encounter.

-- mD