National men’s doubles shuttlers Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik reacts after losing a point while against compatriots Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun in the final match of Malaysian Masters at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil on Sunday. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
PETALING JAYA: The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) have taken a serious view of the excessive social media threats directed at national players, which have caused them unnecessary distress.
BAM secretary-general Datuk Kenny Goh said the association decided to issue an official statement after several national players were targeted by irresponsible social media users who crossed the line with abusive comments and extreme threats.
Kenny expressed disappointment over such behaviour, noting that some remarks had even raised concerns about the players’ safety.
He declined to reveal the identities of the players involved but assured that appropriate steps have been taken to ensure their well-being.
“These days, some people on social media have completely lost their sense of judgement, and it’s a worrying trend,'' said Kenny.
“We can’t just let this slide, which is why BAM issued a strong statement as a reminder and warning to those who think it’s acceptable to threaten players.
“We’re not talking about constructive criticism, but comments that go as far as death threats, such as ‘I’ll wait for you at KLIA’. That’s simply too much.
“Perhaps it’s true that social media has made some people lose their sense of rationality and forget their limits when speaking.”
On Monday, BAM issued a statement condemning the online abuse and threats directed at national players.
The abuse is believed to have stemmed from the disappointing results of several national shuttlers at recent tournaments, including the Arctic Open, Denmark Open and French Open.P
