KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Games, designed to nurture young talent, have been overshadowed by shocking scenes of violence during the recent Sarawak edition's football competition, leaving the FA of Malaysia (FAM) appalled.
Several ugly incidents, including players confronting referees, last week have gone viral, sparking outrage.
The men's final between Melaka and the Federal Territories (FT) at the Mukah Stadium last Saturday, descended into chaos.
The match, which FT won 2-1, was marred by scuffles, rough play and the sending off of Melaka's Haziq Zamri.
The violence didn't stop there.
After the final whistle, Melaka players confronted the referee, forcing him to be escorted off the pitch by police.
FAM local competitions organising committee chairman Firdaus Mohamed, who witnessed the disgraceful scenes in Mukah, is disappointed with the lack of discipline displayed by some teams.
He also condemned team officials who, rather than setting a positive example, were seen inciting their players to react violently during the final.
"I was in Mukah for the final and witnessed these incidents firsthand," said Firdaus, who is also FAM vice president.
"There were provocations during the final, and even a team official was inciting the players. This is completely unacceptable."
Firdaus said FAM repeatedly reminds officials, including coaches, to set a good example for their players, but these warnings are being ignored.
"Incidents like these are becoming more common in the lower leagues and competitions," he warned.
Firdaus confirmed that his committee will forward the match officials' report of the final to the disciplinary committee for further action.