LETTERS: Athletics had been in the spotlight since winning only five gold, three silver and eight bronze medals at the Hanoi Sea Games.
I would like to focus on the June 12 Malaysian Athletics Federation (MAF) presidential election between incumbent S.M. Muthu and Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim, who was president from 2008 to 2012. Sports followers believe there will be no drastic changes, whoever wins, with most affiliates believed to be supporting Shahidan.
In this regard, I remember reading about a former prime minister urging ministers against holding positions in sports bodies.
If that is enforced or challenged, then it would be wise for Shahidan to make way and support former Rear Admiral Datuk Danyal Balagopal Abdullah who would be the right person to challenge Muthu.
Then the contest could focus on having qualified personnel, coaching and development education and adoption of sports science in elite and grassroots development training.
The right leadership can rebuild MAF's image, making it easier to obtain sponsors; spend funds prudently for training and competition in local and overseas tournaments and selection would be based on merit. This way there would be better corporate governance, accountability and transparency.
MAF is suffering from a leadership crisis. A new leadership with athletics knowledge and passion can bring back the glory days.
C. SATHASIVAM SITHERAVELLU
Seremban, Negri Sembilan
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times