Pandelela Rinong Pamg has decided to pursue her studies at a local university as she wants to continue training under coach Yang Zhu Liang.

NONE The diving queen said that she is interested in taking sports science and is awaiting for offers from local universities before making a choice.

Pandelela said Yang, who is from China, will most likely lead training of the Malaysian diving squad at the National Aquatic Centre in Bukit Jalil.

"By studying here, I will always be close to the coach. My parents can always come to Kuala Lumpur to visit me," she told reporters after being appointed icon for the anti-drug education programme of SMK Bandar Sri Damansara I, in Kuala Lumpur, today.

For her Olympic bronze medal-winning effort, Pandelela was given a scholarship from Yayasan Cemerlang to further her studies at Universiti Tun Abdul Razak.

Sarawak Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud also gave her a scholarship to pursue studies in Australia with focus on swimming coach or tertiary education.

Pandelela, 19, also shared her experience at the Olympic Games and gave some advice to students at the school.

"There's no denying that life after (the) London Olympics is more hectic and interferes with my daily routine but it does not affect my performance.

"As an icon it is my responsibility to give the best example to peers. I need to inform the young generation of the dangers of drug abuse," she added.

- Bernama