Reezal orders officers, MSN to assist Cindy Ong over sexual harassment claims

KUALA LUMPUR: Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican has ordered his officers and the National Sports Council (MSN) to contact and assist former national swimmer, Cindy Ong who has claimed to have been sexually harassed during her swimming days.

Reezal Merican insisted that they would help lodge a police report about the acts committed and assured that the NSC would provide full cooperation to the police in their investigation.

He admitted that he was very touched, angry and disappointed to learn of what Cindy and other athletes had to endure after a media outlet highlighted her claims recently.

"Matters like this can happen and will continue to happen to anyone, whether athletes, officers, coaches or support staff; male or female, if no action is taken.

"For me, there is no compromise or protection for any coach or official if found guilty. There shall be no cover ups and no room for the predators," he said in a statement on Facebook today.

Reezal Merican also explained that no national athlete should endure such harassment because every athlete and official should be in a safe environment at the national training centre to develop their talent and sporting potential without any disruption.

At the same time, he reminded Malaysians not to condone such harassment without taking any further action.

"We all have families, children, wives, siblings who might be exposed to such threats. It is difficult for us to handle the thought of being unable to protect the ones we love," he added.

A local media outlet (Malaysiakini) carried an expose by Cindy and another former national swimmer who were sexually harassed and sexually assaulted for years during their time as national swimmers.

-- BERNAMA