KUALA LUMPUR: Former National Sports Council (NSC) director-general Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail had anticipated issues within the national para swimming programme.
Shapawi claimed that hidden agendas were at play behind the case involving a para swimming coach who recently faced various allegations, including sexual misconduct against swimmers.
The Malaysian Para Swimming Association (MPSA) was formed in June last year, with the para swimming programme previously under Malaysia Aquatics but co-managed with NSC.
"The issue involving this coach is something that had been expected to happen since the formation of MPSA," said Shapawi today.
"When an association is formed with the intent to control and expand influence, these are the outcomes.
"There are a number of dubious characters within MPSA's leadership.
"The case reported by the association has been investigated by the police, and it has been found that there is no case.
"This result, however, was disputed by those who initiated the process (by reporting to the police).
"When an association is formed with the intent to control and expand influence, this is what happens.
"Any complaints should be internally investigated first to ensure their validity. An attitude of trying to display power is what leads to taking the wrong actions.
"Relationships between athletes, coaches, and officials have been strained due to this issue.
"I am confident that the intent to control the sport remains strong, and subsequently, this issue will not end here.
"It will continue to ensure that those with vested interests achieve their targets. The police investigation into the case concluded with a 'no further action' classification, as there was insufficient evidence to support the allegations made by the swimmers.
"NSC subsequently issued a statement on Monday stating that they have decided to reinstate the coach following a recommendation made by the council's Misconduct and Protection in Sports Committee, which had also conducted an investigation."
Malaysia Paralympic Council president Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharudin on Tuesday said he was against the NSC's decision to reinstate the coach, stressing that the move "does not solve the problem".
Shahriman is also the president of MPSA.
Shapawi, who retired in September, urged all parties to accept the result of the investigations by the police and NSC.
"The problem is not with the athletes or the coaches. The problem is with the officials within the association," he added.
"They are not happy with the service provided by the coach, despite having a track record of improving the performances of the swimmers.
"That is the real issue, which the leadership of the association needs to resolve. It is better to accept the results of the investigation with an open heart. The association should tighten their rules and work together with the coach to improve discipline in their training regime."