The National Sports Council (NSC) reminded athletes of the various channels they can go to if facing issues like sexual harassment or assault.
NSC director-general Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail (pic) released a statement yesterday outlining the help available for athletes facing such issues.
This is following the serious allegations made by swimmer Cindy Ong, 37, earlier this week.
Cindy claimed that she was sexually assaulted by her coach during an overseas competition with the national squad when she was a teenager.
Shapawi, however, did not delve into details regarding Cindy's case.
"I have contacted Cindy and will hold further discussions with her soon to look into the matter in detail," said Shapawi.
"I hope everyone will give space for us to determine the best way to deal with the issue.
"The NSC would like to stress that all athletes, coaches and even officials who were or are currently under NSC's programmes have a variety of platforms to file complaints regarding harassment or other forms of wrongdoing in sports.
"Among them include the Athletes Representative Committee where one representative or team captain from each sport can raise any concerns they have.
"The NSC athletes division director and the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) are also part of this committee.
"The NSC management board, chaired by Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, also has its protection within Sports committee.
"Athletes, coaches and officials can also contact the NSC Careline to file complaints either via phone (03-89929778 / 89929809) or email (mace@nsc.gov.my). This careline started in April last year (2020).
"The OCM athletes commission can also serve as a platform for athletes to voice out their concerns to the authorities or they can also approach their respective National Sports Associations or the National Sports Institute."
He added that the NSC have also ramped up awareness campaigns to further educate athletes and coaches about sexual misconduct issues this year.