Hate Messages And Cyberbullying National Athletes Should Be Supported Not Harassed

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BELIAWANIS MCA has condemned the disturbing trend of hate messages flooding national badminton players’ social media accounts, saying Malaysians should support one another and not turn against the nation’s athletes when they fall short of expectations.
Its chairperson Ivone Low Yi Wen said while many may speculate which shuttlers is are currently being targeted especially after following social media trends and recent international matches, this is a matter that must be addressed for all sportsmen and sportswomen who represent our country.
“Hate messages are a form of cyber bullying that can severely impact an athlete’s mental wellbeing. On this note, MCMC should investigate any posts that contain threats or endanger our athletes’ safety,” she stated.
“Malaysians must remember that athletes already carry enormous pressure. They train for years to compete at the highest level. They do not deserve to be attacked or insulted simply because they lost a match.
“Words can cause deep harm, especially on social media where messages spread rapidly and widely. Bullying is never justified, and we must stop normalising threatening or abusive behaviour.”
Yesterday (Oct 27), the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has sounded the alarm after national players became the target of a torrent of online abuse and even threats.
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, the national body said it was deeply concerned by the disturbing trend of hate messages flooding players’ social media accounts.
While BAM stopped short of naming those affected for safety reasons, it is understood that world No. 2 Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik have been bombarded with abuse since their French Open semi-final defeat to Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian-Shohibul Fikri on Saturday.
Some furious fans even slid into their private messages, hurling insults and demanding the pair split up—a shocking show of hostility towards Malaysia’s top men’s doubles pair.
Independent pair Jimmy Wong-Lai Pei Jing were also targeted after losing the Indonesia Masters II Super 100 final to Marwan Faza-Aisyah Salsabila, while veteran Goh V Shem—who finished runner-up in the men’s doubles final with South Korean partner Choi Sol Kyu—was told by some to “retire”.
It is believed that some of the trolling originated from Indonesian fans.
BAM said it will closely monitor the situation and offer full support and protection to all national shuttlers as the attacks intensify.
Highs and lows in sports
According to Low, sports are filled with highs and lows where victories are celebrated and defeats are part of growth.
“Just as we cheer for our athletes when they win, we must stand behind them when they face setbacks. Encouragement builds resilience, while bullying only destroys morale,” she added.
“Additionally, Sports and Youth Minister Hannah Yeoh is urged to take a firm stance and speak out to protect our athletes from cyber bullying. As the minister responsible for the welfare of Malaysia’s sports community, her leadership is needed to ensure athletes feel supported.
“The fact that BAM felt compelled to issue an official statement already shows how serious this situation has become, and immediate action is necessary.
“Our athletes carry the Malaysian flag proudly on the world stage. The least we can do is ensure they feel safe, respected, and encouraged by the people they represent.” ‒  Focus Malaysia

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