SHAH ALAM: The coach linked to sexual harassment allegations involving a female national mountain biking (MTB) rider has resigned, says Hannah Yeoh.
However, the Youth and Sports Minister said the investigation would continue as it is already a case under the Penal Code.
"A police report has already been made. We have to make sure every complaint is investigated fairly. "If there are false accusations, it is necessary to make sure that there is justice for the accused.
"Let the investigation take place, after the police and protection officers from the National Sports Council (MSN) finish the investigation, we will comment further. Justice for all parties," she told reporters after launching a fundraising campaign to send the national team to the Footgolf World Cup in Orlando, Florida, here on Saturday (April 1).
On Friday (March 31), Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president Datuk Abu Samah Abd Wahab said he had received a report regarding a case of sexual harassment involving a national female MTB rider.
The athlete, who is in her 20s, lodged a police report on Thursday (March 30), claiming she had been sexually harassed by her coach during team training. MNCF immediately suspended the coach to assist the investigation.
Yeoh said her ministry had also activated protection officers in the MSN in line with the Safe Sports Code and will monitor the investigation of the case especially at MSN level to ensure action is taken quickly.
She said she also wanted the case to be an example of how it was handled according to standard operating procedures (SOP) based on the just-launched Safe Sports Code.
Meantime, Yeoh also warned that her ministry would take strict action against anyone involved in matters regarding sexual harassment.
"I don't care if the offender is the country's number one athlete – if you have created an unsafe environment, stern action will be taken by the ministry," she said.
Meanwhile, commenting on the preparation of other MTB riders following the development, Yeoh said MSN would ensure that female officials are appointed to ensure that the cycling team's preparations and training are not interrupted. – Bernama
