Yeoh Must Address Racism In Sports

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 Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh must be living in a dream world to ask critics of the 2026 Sukma Games not to “racialise” the exclusion of Silambam, the Indian art of self-defence, from the event hosted by Selangor.
As the minister responsible, Yeoh (above) should not deflect criticism by accusing others of racialising the issue. What is truly baffling is her apparent acceptance of Selangor’s decision, as if her ministry is powerless to intervene.
If the host state can include and exclude sports at its whims and fancies, then why do we even have a Youth and Sports Ministry headed by a federal minister?
Citing that “other games were excluded” is no justification. Silambam is more than a sport - it is a centuries-old tradition and a source of pride for the Indian community. Its exclusion cannot be brushed aside as a routine change in the games’ lineup.
ADSIf this is not a racial issue, then what is it? The Indian community is not manufacturing outrage; it is Selangor’s organisers who have acted in a way that smacks of racial discrimination.
This is yet another blow to a community already facing the erosion of its rights.
Even in sports, the long arm of discrimination reaches in - marginalising Indian heritage under the guise of administrative decisions.
If Yeoh, as youth and sports minister, cannot safeguard the inclusivity of sports in Malaysia, then what is the point of holding the position?
She must stop functioning in apologetic mode and start taking concrete steps to ensure Silambam’s rightful place in the 2026 Sukma Games.
Yeoh should stand against racism in sports! - Mkini
P RAMASAMY is former Penang deputy chief minister II and Urimai chairperson.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.

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