KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysia Snooker and Billiard Federation (MSBF) has denied allegations of power abuse made by former referee Muhd Ithmayudin Zulkifli, who claimed his suspension was the result of misconduct within the organisation.
Speaking to Scoop, MSBF president Melvin Chia clarified that Ithmayudin’s suspension followed due process and was in line with the federation’s constitution, dismissing claims that it was arbitrary.
Melvin explained that MSBF’s executive committee had authorised honorary secretary Iskandar Perwira Putra to collect fees for referee courses conducted by MSBF.
While the fees were deposited into Iskandar’s personal account rather than the federation’s, Melvin assured that all transactions were accounted for in financial reports and subject to auditing.
“I want to clarify that the accusations are baseless. (Ithmayudin’s) suspension was carried out according to the association’s legal procedures.
“His claim that referees cannot be disciplined because they are not covered by the federation’s constitution is simply incorrect,” Melvin said.
He added that, as in other Malaysian sports associations, referees found to have violated rules can be subject to disciplinary action by the Disciplinary Committee.
Addressing the collection of fees, Melvin noted that the decision to allow Iskandar to handle the payments was made to streamline logistical costs, including hotel bookings and training venues since withdrawing funds from the MSBF account is a complex process.
“To claim that the referee courses organised by Iskandar are not legitimate or recognised is false. All participants received certificates and badges from MSBF for their duties,” he added.
MSBF is now consulting its legal team to consider legal action against Ithmayudin.
The former referee had earlier caused a stir in the snooker community by accusing the MSBF of abuse of power and trust, coupled with a two-year suspension from officiating.
The Pahang-born referee has alleged that he was never officially informed of the start and end dates of his suspension, claiming the MSBF did not follow proper procedures.
Despite the allegations, MSBF remains resolute and is ready to cooperate fully with authorities, as Ithmayudin has reported the matter to both the police and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
“We are deeply disappointed by these accusations and have engaged with our lawyers to pursue the necessary legal steps,” a spokesperson said.
“We will also hold a press conference to address these issues and work to clear MSBF’s name,” the spokesperson added. — September 13, 2024