KUALA LUMPUR – As the elections for the post of president in the Malaysian Athletics Federation (MAF) election term for 2022-2025 term draws near, some in the fraternity have voiced their concerns against incumbent Datuk S.M. Muthu.
Speaking to The Vibes, an athletics’ coach, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said they wish that the next president that steps into the role would be more welcoming of open communications within the federation.
“We need better two-way communication with the coaches, athletes, and those running the governing body.
“Right now, no one can voice out any concerns, not even the athletes. Any disagreement with the higher-ups is immediately dealt with harsh repercussions,” they said.
According to the coach, both athletes and coaches that speak up about issues regarding how the federation is currently being run have been shown a cause letter.
“This discourages anyone from saying anything. We all have to merely stay quiet to avoid being subjected to more severe punishment.”
“Other coaches are afraid to say anything because if they speak out now and Muthu wins again, he will surely come after us,” the coach said.
The coach also pointed out that athletes have been lacking proper training opportunities due to lack of funds from MAF’s management.
“Before the pandemic, we used to be able to send our athletes overseas for training. But now, we are always given the reason that there is no money.
“How is that possible? Shouldn’t those in charge seek sponsorship from external sources to ensure that our coaches and athletes are taken care of?
“They can’t just be depending on the National Sports Council (NSC) to be funding us solely,” they added.
The coach said regardless of who takes over the position after next week’s election, it is crucial that they have a passion for the sporting fraternity and not take on the role merely for its merits.
“They need to have passion for athletics. It doesn’t matter who comes in as long as athletes and coaches are taken care of.”
Besides that, the coach also raised the question of how Muthu is still allowed to run MAF after he was stripped of his presidency and membership for life from the Selangor Athletics Association (SAA).
The decision against Muthu and two other SAA officials was made unanimously in connection to the alleged syphoning of RM100,000 from the association’s fixed deposit account.
Scheduled to be held during MAF’s annual general meeting on June 12, Muthu will be going up against Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim and former national athlete Nurhayati Karim. – The Vibes, June 6, 2022
