KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysia Silambam Association (MSA) has denied all allegations of misconduct relating to the organisation of the International Silambam Championship held in Sepang last year.
The association’s response comes after sources within the silambam community told Scoop that MSA allegedly hosted the 2024 championship without approval from the International Silambam Federation (ISF) — the sport’s global governing body.
According to one insider, the tournament — which received RM44,800 in funding from the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) — was not sanctioned by the ISF and was allegedly conducted under its name without authorisation.
Scoop has also seen purported evidence suggesting that members of MSA’s current administration forged an invitation letter to attract participation from athletes in Portugal, falsely naming the signatory as ISF’s secretary-general.
It was further alleged that MSA charged international athletes and officials USD250 (RM1,064) to take part in the event, while local participants paid between RM350 and RM400. Some payment receipts were reportedly issued without an official letterhead.
It is also believed that ISF has since filed a police report in India, issued a legal notice demanding USD16,000 (RM69,700) in compensation for the alleged misuse of its name, and contacted KBS urging action against MSA.
When contacted by Scoop, MSA president Dr M. Suraess confirmed that the association is pursuing legal action against ISF.
Suraess insisted there is no obligation for MSA to seek ISF’s approval to organise an international tournament, arguing that the body is inactive and lacks International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognition.
Checks by Scoop found that while ISF claims 10 affiliates globally, it is only registered in India and is not recognised by the IOC.
“All allegations against my administration are baseless. The championship was organised with the proper documentation and approval from relevant authorities, including KBS,” Suraess said.
“Why should we get ISF’s consent? They are not a legitimate body. When KBS called us for a meeting last year after receiving an email from ISF, we told them the same thing.”
He added that the term “International Silambam Federation” was used because MSA is working to secure recognition from the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and the IOC — with the goal of establishing a more active international headquarters in Malaysia, similar to the Asian Football Confederation.
“We didn’t even use ISF’s logo, and all fees were clearly communicated to participants beforehand. Everyone agreed. So what’s the problem now?
“ISF is deliberately stirring unrest to damage the reputation we’ve built. We won’t stay silent. Legal action is underway.”
Suraess said MSA is prepared to meet with the Sports Commissioner’s Office to clarify matters and protect the integrity of the association.
“Since taking over in 2023, my team has faced unfounded accusations aimed at bringing us down.
“Some individuals within our own organisation have been spreading falsehoods and causing internal conflict. I’ve stayed quiet to avoid harming the sport’s growth — but not anymore.
“I’ve identified six state affiliates responsible for creating problems. They will be removed from the association.
“I will meet with the Sports Commissioner, Suhardi Alias, to submit a full report and explain the situation.”
Last year’s championship saw athletes from several countries — including India, Sri Lanka, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates — take part. Around 250 participants were from Malaysia alone. – June 8, 2025
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