PETALING JAYA: The Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM), which was set to host the Women’s World Squash Championships in Kuala Lumpur from Dec 11-18, has no idea why there was a proposal to cancel the event.
SRAM president Huang Ying How said security was never discussed when promoters Hallmark Events Group approached them.
“We have been mostly kept in the dark. Hallmark approached us for help with referees and in appointing a tournament director ... but that was about it,” said Huang.
“I do not understand why they mentioned security as a reason to postpone the world meet. They never brought that up with us during the few times we met.”
Malaysia has regularly hosted major squash tournaments – the Malaysian Open since 1975 and the KL Open since 1999 – without any major incident.
The delayed 2013 women’s world meet was also held in Malaysia, at the Penang International Sports Arena in March last year.
Women’s national No. 3 Low Wee Wern said it would be a shame if the world meet was called off.
“We’ve never had any security issues in the country and all the players were looking forward to competing in Malaysia,” said Low.
“I enjoyed the world meet in Penang last year and really wanted to compete on home ground again.”
Olympic Council of Malaysia deputy president Datuk Seri Norza Zakaria said Malaysia could have handled any security concern.
“This is a very safe country and the Government is well equipped to handle any risk.
“The International Olympic Committee also had a big event here recently, and they were very impressed with the organisation and the conduct, as well as effectiveness of our security personnel,” said Norza.
The Professional Squash Association has appointed independent consultants and is awaiting a risk assessment report.
