KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Karate Federation (Makaf) has dismissed reports claiming that national kumite coach Tamer Abdelraouf Mourssy’s contract was not renewed, clarifying that the Egyptian coach is still part of the team.
This follows speculation that the 41-year-old’s contract had not been extended, with assistants S. Senthil Kumaran and L. Kunasilan reportedly conducting training sessions in his absence.
Makaf president Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad confirmed to Scoop that Tamer’s two-year contract, which expires next year, is under review, and a new contract is being prepared for him.
“The reports about us not renewing his contract and his sudden departure from the team are not true. Tamer is currently on holiday, which is why his assistants have stepped in to conduct the training sessions on his behalf.
“Tamer is a coach who has brought us significant achievements in a short period, and if he stays with us longer, it would obviously benefit the national team in the future,” Azmi explained.
Azmi added that the new contract will be presented to Tamer upon his return. While the decision to accept the offer lies with Tamer, Azmi assured that Makaf is fully committed to offering him a contract.
“If Tamer decides not to continue his contract with us, we won’t have a problem with that. We will start exploring other options and move forward,” said Azmi when met.
For the record, Tamer has been Malaysia’s senior squad manager since February last year, following the resignation of former coaching director Datuk P. Arivalagan in the same month.
He has previously coached Egypt’s (2010-2015) and Iraq’s (2015-2020) national teams.
Notable achievements under his leadership include Arif Afifuddin Malik’s gold medal in the men’s under-84kg kumite at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, ending a 12-year drought for Malaysia.
Tamer’s team also secured four golds, one silver, and three bronzes at the Phnom Penh SEA Games last year. — December 10, 2024