Zaiton fears Karim's status will jeopardize national athletes

Former Sports Commissioner Zaiton Othman has voiced serious concerns regarding the potential repercussions for Malaysian athletics if the ongoing suspension issue involving the President of Athletics Malaysia (MA), Datuk Karim Ibrahim, is not adequately addressed. Zaiton, a respected figure in Malaysian sports, believes that World Athletics (WA) will not hesitate to impose stringent measures if the situation is not rectified swiftly.

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I believe there is a letter from WA. Until you (Karim) correct the situation, only then can they (WA) accept you. If you fail, they will impose a suspension on you.

Zaiton's apprehension stems from WA's firm stance on adhering to its regulations. She cautioned Karim against complacency, emphasizing that the absence of a formal letter or immediate action does not guarantee safety. The former commissioner stressed the importance of initiating appeals or challenges to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if necessary. This reflects a deep understanding of international sports governance, where procedural adherence is paramount.

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Don't think oh, there's no letter, there's nothing, everything is smooth, you are safe. No. Have any requests or appeals been made? Has any challenge been made to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)? Has it?

Drawing parallels with the suspension of Russian athletics by WA, Zaiton highlighted the severity of such actions, noting that even nations with world-class athletes have faced consequences. She urged Malaysian officials to respect the guidelines set by international federations, warning that defiance could lead to dire outcomes for Malaysian athletes, potentially barring them from international competitions. This cautionary tale serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of national sports bodies with global governing entities.

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If not, don't think it's over. That's why we have to be careful because when it's too late, our athletes won't even be able to compete.

Zaiton's remarks were made during a press conference for a new movement called RISE, led by former national athletes. This context suggests a broader concern among Malaysian athletes and sports veterans about the integrity and standing of Malaysian sports on the international stage. The focus on Karim Ibrahim's status underscores a critical juncture for Malaysian athletics, where leadership accountability and adherence to global standards are under scrutiny.

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Russian Athletics was once suspended, they reached that stage (accepting punishment) even though there were world-class athletes. This can happen (to our athletes). So you cannot go against the guidelines or regulations set by the world governing body.