KUALA LUMPUR: The Sports Commissioner’s office will take legal action against the organisers of the Klang City International Marathon 2017 over the latter’s failure to obtain the necessary license to run the event.
Sports Commissioner Datuk Zaiton Othman said they had not received any requests from the event organisers for a licence for the event.
“The Sports Commissioner’s office would like to stress that we did not receive any applications from the organisers of the Klang City International Marathon.
“The run was held without the permission of the Sports Commissioner which acts as the gatekeeper for any events held within the country. We will take legal action against the event organisers under the Act,” she said in a statement.
Zaiton referred to the Sports Development Act 1997, Section 36 which indicates that any parties hosting sporting events will need to submit a request and obtain clearance from the Sports Commissioner’s office as well as others involved such as the police and local authorities.
The statement also said it is compulsory for organisers to ensure they are capable of hosting the event financially and technically, as well as to abide by every method, and rules and regulations outlined in the national and international sports management body rulebook.
“I would like to remind those who are planning on hosting any sort of sports events to come forth and submit their requests and get clearance from us before holding said events."
“Organisers are also reminded to abide by the decisions towards their submissions. This is to ensure the event will only run after all rules are followed and the necessary precautions are taken to ensure the smooth running and safety of all. We will take legal action if anyone decides to go against this.”
Zaiton added that beginning Dec 14, the Sports Commissioner’s office will upload a list of approved sporting events on the Youth and Sports Ministry’s website (kbs.gov.my).
Yesterday, three marathon runners were injured when they were struck from behind by a car during the Klang City International Marathon 2017, leaving one with a skull fracture.
The incident took place along Jalan Kapar Batu 2 during a pace routine around 4.30am.