ASTAF temporarily suspends PSM from any sepak takraw activities

KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian Sepak Takraw Federation (ASTAF) has temporarily suspended the Sepak Takraw Association of Malaysia (PSM) from any activities related to the sport.

ASTAF in a statement said the suspension, until a hearing is convened, has been handed to PSM due to PSM president Datuk Seri Ahmad Ismail’s remarks on the Asian sepak takraw governing body’s election on March 1.

“The president’s action and/or written words have brought the game of sepak takraw which interest they’re are meant to promote, into disrepute. The Executive Committee of ASTAF has unanimously voted to pursue disciplinary proceedings against PSM for breach of its undertaking,” the statement read.

It said once the Disciplinary Committee of ASTAF receives PSM’s written response, it shall convene a hearing in due course for PSM to show cause on why it should not be expelled from ASTAF and/or face other sanctions.

If found guilty, PSM can be handed any of the following sentences - determining the suspension period, expulsion, fine, permanent or combination of the mentioned sentences – as it was not the first offence committed by PSM and Ahmad.

The statement added that on 14 March 2008, PSM pledged to the International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF) to abide by the objectives of ISTAF and the constitution of the ASTAF; and to support ISTAF and ASTAF on various objectives.

-- BERNAMA