AWARE of the problems faced by participants at the Philippines Sea Games, Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman has called on Malaysian athletes to be ready no matter what happens.
Syed Saddiq said he doesn’t want the issue to be used as an excuse for Malaysian athletes not to perform amid reports of certain venues not being completed on time as well as lodging and logistical screw-ups.
“I have told the athletes and coaches to be prepared for any outcome because these matters are out of our reach,” said Syed Saddiq.
“The feedback that we received a couple of months ago, we have conveyed it to the Sea Games organisers. But we need to be ready.
“The Sports Ministry will try its best to lighten the load of whatever problems they (athletes and coaches) may face.
“However, this should not be used as an excuse (for athletes not to perform) and we know what we’re going into.
“All countries will face the same problems. We have to stay focused.”
Teams from Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Timor-Leste have complained about the transport, facilities, lodging and food on arrival in Manila.
On another issue, Saddiq urged all the parties concerned to help in investigating claims that Indonesian fans were attacked by Malaysian fans after a pre-World Cup match at Bukit Jalil last week.
“I have openly apologised but I would like all parties to help us in this investigation.
“The Police have said they have yet to receive the report from the victim but instead have received one from a third party which could not be as accurate as the account of the victim,” he said.
“I was told it didn’t occur during the match in Bukit Jalil but happened in Bukit Bintang.
“I do not know if it was related to football but it still happened.
“Instead of prolonging the matter, I would rather apologise and I am aware they want an official apology but if I receive the request, I will officially reply and hopefully we can resolve this.”