KUALA LUMPUR – Despite an increasing effort to promote gender equality and proper treatment of women in recent times, victims of sexual harassment still find it challenging to speak out without fear of repercussion.
Yet, thanks to the courageous act by teenager Ain Husniza Saiful Nizam who brought to light a teacher’s uncouth “rape joke” on TikTok last month, another victim of harassment has come forward.
Prompted by the ongoing public outcry against unwanted advances, former national swimmer Cindy Ong said the time is right to highlight the rampant sexual harassment that plagues the sports industry.
When contacted by The Vibes yesterday, Ong, who hails from Ipoh, said her recent outburst in the media has been taken out of context by the public.
Her personal rant was not intended to draw attention to herself, but instead to increase awareness on the widespread nature of sexual harassment in the sports fraternity, she added.
“This is not about me at all. I am talking about it now because I’ve nothing to lose. Back then, when I was an athlete, I could have lost my position on the national team or had something far more detrimental happen to me as a result of speaking out.
“People need to know what athletes are going through. Everyone thinks that it does not happen often, but the truth is that sexual harassment is far worse in sports.
“My intention is to not look for a fight or reveal the perpetrator. I want to bring these issues to light and let people know what is going on behind the scenes in the sports fraternity.”
Although many high-profile athletes are allegedly experiencing oppression and sexual harassment, Ong said they are too afraid to speak out as the parties involved are well-connected and could use those connections to ruin their sporting careers.
“Nobody is prepared to tell their family or friends because it will put everything they’ve worked for at risk. Even if they reported it, no stern action will be taken by the officials.
“I really hope that Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun’s Sexual Harassment Bill is tabled soon because there is nothing governing them (perpetrators) now. It is the victims’ word against theirs.”
The 37-year-old mother of three, who had experienced sexual assault and harassment when she was an athlete, alleged that a national coach had touched her breasts during one of her competitions abroad.
“It normally happens in sports when you compete overseas, but I believe it is worse in aquatics and gymnastics because of the dressing.
“Here, it is all about the mentality, and not to mention that sexual harassment disrupts an athlete’s performance because it creates stress and causes depression.”
The Vibes had earlier contacted the National Sports Council (NSC) Director-General Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail, who said although he has spoken to Ong about the issue, it is better if she gave her side of the story.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican has reportedly ordered his officers and NSC to assist Ong in lodging a report on the acts committed against her during her swimming days. – The Vibes, May 27, 2021
