Watson Nyambek hits out at writer who wrote about his bankruptcy notice
A filephoto of Watson during his heyday. The former national sprinter is concerned that the published news will affect his credibility and livelihood.
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.
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