KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Football League (MFL) and the Sportswriters Association of Malaysia (SAM) have condemned the aggressive behaviour of a football official towards journalists following the Super League match between Police and Selangor at Selayang Stadium on Saturday.
"We will wait for the match commissioner's report. However, we have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of violence or aggression," said MFL CEO Giorgio Pompili Rossi in a statement today (Oct 20).
"We have also requested detailed accounts from the general coordinator, media officer, security officer, and the police assigned to the home team, as well as from Selangor officials. "Certain behaviours are unacceptable and cannot be justified, even under challenging circumstances.
"Football involves multiple stakeholders, and the media plays a crucial role; therefore, respect must be afforded to all parties, both professionally and personally. "No one in this industry holds the right to act aggressively towards those dedicated to their craft.
The incident in question allegedly involved four media representatives, who filed official complaints with SAM after an unsettling encounter with a Selangor FC official.
The journalists claimed that the official used insulting language and pressured them to delete certain photos, allegedly jeopardising the reputation of Selangor FC.
The journalists reportedly couldn't leave the stadium due to fan provocations, causing the situation to escalate. SAM president Ismadi Abd Manap expressed disappointment in a letter addressed to Selangor FC CEO Dr Johan Kamal Hamidon.
"This incident reflects a troubling disregard for the role of sports journalists, especially in a public setting. "We urge Selangor FC to conduct a thorough internal investigation to reinforce the importance of media relations," Ismadi said.
Selangor FC have yet to issue an official statement. However, Johan personally apologised to Timesport for the unfortunate incident but declined to provide further comments.