National 100 metres record holder Watson Nyambek expressed disappointment over an article that revealed his financial status which he described as "unethical and unprofessional."
The visibly upset Watson said, the writer of the article had called him over the phone about a bankruptcy notice that was published in the advertisement section of a local daily yesterday.
"I explained my situation to the journalist, it was supposed to be a conversation between two friends and I never authorised or gave him permission to publish the news, it is private matter to me and my family and I'm upset and angry that he did not respect my privacy," he told Bernama here today.
Watson, accompanied by his wife, Fellizia Michael, said the writer should have asked his permission since the article would affected his coaching career in terms of sponsorship as well as his credibility.
"First and foremost I wish to clarify again here that, I never allowed the writer to publish the news, yes, we have struggled financially for years but we are not trying to beg for sympathy," he said.
Watson hoped that it would not affect his Flying Dayak Club which he had set up to coach athletes in the state.
Felliza who shared Watson's disappointment said they may consider legal action against the writer.
"Two lawyers, one from Limbang and another from Miri called us to offer their services if we needed legal advice. I tried to call and WhatsApp the writer since this morning but he did not answer or reply my WhatsApp message. Is this what you call ethical journalism?" she asked.
She said she and Watson have been trying to supplement their own income by selling fruits near shopping malls, selling handmade bags and travelling nationwide to conduct coaching clinics in schools.
Meanwhile, the Sarawak Pemuda Barisan Nasional chief, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said he would meet Watson to seek clarification and to find a solution to the Flying Dayak's financial status.
"The effort is to recognise and appreciate his sacrifices and contributions to the country since he is still the National Men's 100m record holder. The record of 10.30s was set in 1998," said Fadillah in a statement today.
A local daily had reported that Watson had been issued a bankruptcy notice for failing to settle a loan of RM100,000 with the bank.
He was reported to have taken up the loan because his father had been diagnosed with cancer.
Bernama
Sat Mar 05 2016
A filephoto of Watson during his heyday. The former national sprinter is concerned that the published news will affect his credibility and livelihood.
Who is Prabowo Subianto, incoming president of Indonesia?
A wealthy ex-general with ties to Indonesia's popular outgoing president and its dictatorial past, looks set to be its next leader.
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.