Malaysia Files Complaint Against Thai Officials Over Sepaktakraw World Cup Controversy
The Persatuan Sepak Takraw Malaysia (PSM) has officially lodged a complaint with the International Sepaktakraw Federation following a controversial incident during the Sepaktakraw World Cup 2026 final in Kuala Lumpur.
According to reports, the complaint was submitted by PSM Secretary-General Datuk Abidullah Salleh after tensions erupted during the championship match between Malaysia and Thailand at Titiwangsa Stadium on May 23.
The dispute reportedly began after Thailand protested a referee’s decision during the final. The Thai team later walked off the court mid-match, leading tournament officials to award Malaysia a 2-1 victory.
In the official complaint, PSM named three senior Thai sports officials, accusing them of contributing to disorder and escalating tensions around the team bench during the match. The federation argued that the officials were not listed in the official match roster but remained actively involved near the court throughout the confrontation.
Datuk Abidullah stated that senior representatives of the sport should demonstrate professionalism, leadership, and respect for match officials during international competitions. He said the actions witnessed during the final created confusion and damaged the image of the sport on a global stage.
He further explained that disagreements with refereeing decisions should be handled through formal protest procedures established by ISTAF rather than by refusing to continue the match.
The Sepaktakraw World Cup final was broadcast live internationally and attracted millions of viewers worldwide. Malaysian organizers expressed concern that the incident negatively affected the reputation of the tournament and could impact future sponsorships, broadcasting agreements, and public confidence in international sepaktakraw competitions.
Malaysia also emphasized the significant resources invested in hosting the tournament, including event management, sponsorship coordination, government cooperation, and international broadcasting arrangements.
PSM has now requested ISTAF to conduct a formal review into the conduct of the officials involved and determine whether disciplinary action or further investigation is necessary under the federation’s governance rules.
The incident has sparked major discussion among fans and sports observers across Southeast Asia, with many calling for stronger professionalism and fair play standards in future international sepaktakraw events.
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