KUALA LUMPUR: Youth and Sports Minister Dr Taufiq Johari has downplayed rumours that Indonesia may boycott next year’s Malaysia SEA Games.
Dr Taufiq said he had not received any official statements from Indonesia regarding the matter.
It was reported that a national sports association from Indonesia had suggested boycotting the SEA Games in Malaysia, and the idea has gained traction online.
Indonesia are reported to be unhappy that a number of their favoured sports such as climbing, rowing, beach volleyball, wrestling, chess, jujitsu, kickboxing and handball have been left out of the Games.
“I respect the views that have been expressed, not only from netizens, but from all parties,” said Dr Taufiq.
“But as of today, there has not been any official statement, so I just consider that to be netizens talking.
“The theme that we have chosen for the SEA Games is Celebrating Unity and I am confident that every country has its own wisdom to ensure that unity within Asean is not only maintained but also strengthened.
“Let us make this event a platform to unite us all and strengthen relations between countries.”
Dr Taufiq said the selection of sports for the Malaysia SEA Games has undergone multiple rounds of discussion, via the SEA Games Federation (SEAGF) platform, before being approved for the Games.
A total of 473 events from 43 sports were approved for the Games by the SEAGF exco on Oct 30.
This is the final list of events, which means there is no more room for appeals.
Dr Taufiq was speaking after officiating the launch of the new Malaysia SEA Games and Malaysia Asean Para Games website in Bukit Jalil today.