Ahmad Faizal Azumu has assured all parties that the Youth and Sports Ministry will give its full cooperation in the police investigation of a sexual assault claim on a child athlete allegedly committed by a coach two decades ago.
When contacted, the youth and sports minister pledged to create a safe environment for children and athletes.
"I believe a police report has been lodged by the former athlete regarding this matter and I can assure all parties that the ministry will cooperate and assist fully in regards to this investigation," Faizal (above) said.
The minister was responding to the latest sexual assault complaint in the sports industry, this time by a former national swimmer who revealed he was forced to perform oral sex on his coach when he was 10 years old until he was 17.
The Vibes reported that the athlete wanted to remain anonymous due to an ongoing investigation into the matter.
The complainant said he decided to lodge a police report late last year even though the incidents took place some 20 years prior.
The complainant alleged that the sexual acts were also performed on other boys and girls in the team.
He also claimed the predator is still an official with the national team.
Malaysiakini has attempted to contact Bukit Aman for comment.
Safe sport law
Faizal said the Youth and Sports Ministry is working on forming laws to ensure the safety of athletes.
"As mentioned before, the ministry and I are committed to creating a safe environment for our children and athletes. And the best way this can be achieved is through strong legislation," he told Malaysiakini.
The minister said his officers have already been tasked to work on developing a Safe Sport Act.
"This is something that needs to be expedited by taking into concern the safety and welfare of all stakeholders.
"I would like to give my assurance that the ministry will always be open to engagement on these matters," he added.
Previously, several athletes including national diver Pandelela Rinong and former national swimmer Cindy Ong came forward to reveal sexual abuse and harassment suffered by athletes at the hands of sports officials. - Mkini
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