Malaysia will send 289 athletes to the Hangzhou Asian Games to compete in 22 out of 40 sports.

A flag handover ceremony for the Malaysian contingent was held here on Monday.

In her remarks to the athletes ahead of their departure, Malaysian Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh Tseow Suan urged focus and teamwork, which she said are critical for success.

Yeoh also expressed her appreciation towards the Chinese side for the assistance provided in ensuring smooth preparations for the Malaysian athletes.

For her part, former Deputy Prime Minister Wan Azizah Wan Ismail reminded the athletes that they shouldered the responsibility of raising the country's name through sports and urged them to give their best effort.

Wan Azizah, also the wife of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, said the games is a strong avenue to build relations between China and Malaysia.

"I am sure the existing good relationship between the two countries will further flourish, not only in sports but also in other areas that will bring benefit to both Malaysia and China," she said.

The 19th Asian Games, which will open on Sept. 23 in Hangzhou, China, is set to be the largest edition ever, with 12,500 athletes from 45 countries and regions competing in 40 sports, 61 disciplines and 481 events.