KUALA LUMPUR: Sports analyst Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli has questioned the timing of a claim by national diver Pandelela Rinong that an "entity" had affected the national diving team following their dismal outing at the World Aquatics Championships last week.
Pekan said he was surprised by Pandelela's claim made upon returning from the Doha world meet on Monday.
No Malaysian diver secured a Paris Olympic berth in Doha.
"Why was the disruption from this 'entity' only revealed after they failed in Qatar?" said Pekan today.
"What would have happened if our divers succeeded in qualifying for Paris? Would this 'entity' still be revealed?
"Or will it be kept a secret until another failure happens?"
Nonetheless, Pekan stressed whatever issue faced must be looked into to ensure that national divers are able to perform to the best of their abilities.
"I am also curious to know what is being referred to here (by Pandelela). Is it a human or perhaps something else," said Pekan.
"I urge our national divers to be brave and speak up about any issues for the benefit of everyone. Don't just talk when things are not in our favour.
"Be professional and prepare to move on in a new direction when your career as an athlete is coming to an end."
Pandelela, upon arrival at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Monday, told Harian Metro that something was bothering the team but did not elaborate.
"Something happened which was out of our control. We tried to control what we could. What happened was unexpected. It would be a long story if I explain it," said Pandelela.
"It would be better for me to discuss this internally."
Pandelela hopes to raise the matter with Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh.