KUALA LUMPUR – The Sepak Takraw Federation of Malaysia (STAM) is capitalising on the presence of international refereeing officials in the country by organising a two-day course aimed at enhancing the skills of local umpires.
STAM president Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan Sumali said that such a course had not been conducted in the country for a decade.
“Previously, our umpires with promising potential lacked opportunities to obtain certification at the Asian and world levels, as they had to attend courses in other countries.
“The expenses involved, including airfare, accommodation, and the US$100 (RM471.85) fee to the International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF), were prohibitive.
“So, with the presence of international refereeing bodies in the country for the World Cup, we seized the chance to organise this course to raise the proficiency of our umpires.
“There have been questions about why Malaysia hasn’t produced more international-level referees, so this initiative addresses that concern,” said Sumali.
STAM reached out to each state association, requesting nominations for participants in the course, which is being held over two days at a city hotel.
A total of 25 umpires are participating in the course.
10 aim to upgrade from Asian Sepak Takraw Federation referees to certified International Sepak Takraw Federation umpires, while another 15 are advancing from national-level umpires to continental referees.
Participants will also receive training on the new video review system introduced at the World Cup, which runs from Saturday until May 26 at Titiwangsa Stadium. – May 14, 2024
