SEA Games Sepak Takraw Pull out

The decision of Persatuan Sepak Takraw Malaysia (PSM) to pull out of the Sea Games in Korat Thailand is really a disappointing decision made. It is not only a disappointment for the athletes who has been gearing and preparing for the biennial game but also to all Malaysian sports fans. For these athletes it might be just a once in a life time opportunity to appear in a major international game and it is the lowest level for them to feel the excitement of their participation ad a high level.

For the country it is at least a silver medal lost and for most Malaysian the decision even though made based on principles of the high ranking officials is actually uncalled for. They are just satisfying their feelings without respecting the hopes of Malaysian sports fans especially the sports of Sepak Takraw.

As the sports minister said, this is not a personal issue but a national decision since millions of Ringgit has been invested by the government and this part of it is my money as a taxpayer. PSM should have made known and discuss the decision with the higher sports management such as Olympic Council of Malaysia who they are affiliated to, the National Sports Council and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

As a sports fan I see is as a cowardly withdrawal without taking into account dynamic development of the sport. As the governing body of the sport, they should take the change as a challenge and face it gentlemanly. What is wring with the introduction of the rubber coated ball if it can lead to the acceptance of the sports in the Olympics. Who knows it might be an opportunity for a gold medal win.

One criteria of a good and successful coach is adaptability to any changes. Now changes is made and PSM should adapt to the change. Are they going to tell us that Thailand is using the new ball to outwit other participating countries in the game? Every affiliate to ASTAF surely knew of the change and if other ASEAN countries can accept it why not us? I think PSM should not be thick headed but to work out smart.