As the 29th SEA Games come to an end, and our Merdeka day here, Malaysians can not be anymore proud of the country’s achievement.
However, there are many others who had a different perspective on the 142 gold medals’ win.
It was said that Malaysia continued the ‘ugly tradition’ where the host country would emerge as champions.
In the last 10 SEA Games before KL 2017, the host nation had emerged champions six times, including Vietnam (2003) and the Philippines (2005). Thailand also emerged champions when it hosted the Games in 2007 and 1995.
Source: myactivesg
According to Bangkok Post, many Thai officials, athletes, journalists and fans deemed KL 2017 as the worst tournament in SEA Games history, in terms of both officiating and organising.
The Kuala Lumpur Games was even dubbed as “SEA Kong”, which meant “SEA Cheating”
Here’s some of the things people highlighted or accused (take it with a pinch of salt):
1. This is Malaysia’s second SEA Games overall crown after they got their first in 2001 with the event also taking place in Kuala Lumpur.
2. Indonesia accused Malaysia of cheating in Pencak Silat tournament after being given scores which were way too high.
3. A Malaysian fighter was declared winner after he accidentally got injured in the final against a Thai athlete.
4. In athletics, a Malaysian athlete won the gold medal in a women’s walk event after she apparently ran in the final stretch to the finish line.
5. Organisers changed venues of competition times at short notice numerous times.
6. Thai womens’ volleyball players said organisers did not arrange transportation for them when they arrived at the airport.
7. The players also said there were not enough breakfast prepared for all of them.
8. In gymnastics, two Malaysians were awarded gold medals in the same event.
Thana Chaiprasit, Thailand’s chief of delegation said officiating at KL 2017 is the worst he’s ever seen. We are also aware of the numerous flag blunders Malaysia has made.
Bangkok Post mentioned that Thai officials were unhappy at how Malaysia organised sports they were good at, and axed events that other countries would win to improve their chances as the overall champion. However, ‘this claim is over the top’ according to Bangkok Post, because Thai officials also attended the meetings to determine sports for the Games.
What did you think about the SEA games?
Also read: 14 Good-Looking SEA Games Athletes That Have Captured Our Hearts
