"Athletes constantly challenge themselves, much like craftspeople continually refine their skills."

Chong, who is also the Malaysian Olympic Committee's vice-president, added that his country had contributed other items to the museum, including Team Malaysia's official uniform.

HAGOC executive office deputy director Chen Shengjian called the museum's opening a "crucial responsibility" of preparations to host the Games.

He explained the first principle of curation was to prioritize tangible exhibits of such items as sports equipment. Some displays will later be swapped for those used in the 19th Asiad, such as the soccer ball used in the finals. The museum will also feature interactive elements, he added.