KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysia Singapore Sikh Sports Council (MSSSC) is frustrated over misleading claims from certain members of its community, alleging that the council promotes violence in sports through its tournaments.
These claims followed a report based on an alleged viral video showing hockey players scuffling and shouting profanities at each other during the Gurdwara Cup’s opening match between Kuala Lumpur and Johor at the Tun Razak Hockey Stadium on May 29.
It was also reported that the tournament, officiated by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, saw heightened emotions during its commencement.
However, MSSSC president Baljit Singh Randhay clarified the situation, acknowledging that while there was a verbal altercation, no physical violence occurred.
Baljit also refuted claims that such incidents were a norm during the Gurdwara Cup.
“Yes, we admit that there was a verbal argument on the opening day of the tournament, and we have resolved the issue by penalising those involved in the incident,” Baljit told Scoop when contacted.
“This is the first time in 72 years that such an issue has occurred in our council’s games, and we are really disappointed by it.
“However, we completely deny that there was any physical altercation, and the sports minister was not present during the incident.”
He further explained that Hannah attended the launch in the evening at the Royal Selangor Club in Bukit Kiara, while the incident happened in the morning at the Tun Razak Hockey Stadium.
“We are angry that members of our own Sikh community are spreading false information.
“It’s sad to see so many sour grapes trying to bring down our council by exaggerating the incident without stating the facts.
“All we hope to do now is move on from this incident and continue our agenda of grooming the best talents in the sport from our community,” Baljit added.
With the exception of a brief break during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Gurdwara Cup has been held annually since 1952.
Aside from hockey, the Gurdwara Cup, which will see a total of 900 athletes participating this year from Malaysia and Singapore, will also feature competitions in football, netball, badminton, golf, pool, and darts. – May 31, 2024