KUALA LUMPUR, The Sepak Takraw Association of Malaysia (PSM) will upgrade 25 association umpires to the level of the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) and Asian Sepak Takraw Federation (ASTAF).

PSM president Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan all 25 of them would undergo a two-day umpiring course in the capital for the upgrading process.

“Of the total, 10 will be upgraded to the ISTAF level and 15 others to the ASTAF level. We are taking advantage of the 2024 Sepaktakraw World Cup (to be held at the Titiwangsa Stadium here from May 18-26) and requested ISTAF to hold the upgrading course because the last time we had one was in 2014,’ he said when met by Bernama at the launch of the sepak takraw umpiring course here today.

Mohd Sumali, also the ISTAF vice-president, said they should use this opportunity to ensure the services of quality umpires are not wasted and that they be used to officiate in other tournaments.

“This is good news for the development of sepak takraw in the country. Why doesn’t Malaysia
which actively develops the sport, besides Thailand, produce many international-class umpires?… I think this is the time.

“They (the umpires) must use this opportunity well. They were chosen from every state (to attend this course), where the quality ones will be upgraded,’ he said.

Mohd Sumali said that some of these umpires will be involved in officiating at the Sepaktakraw World Cup at the Titiwangsa Stadium.

“We will pick the best and perhaps rotate them so that everyone gets a chance (to officiate at the World Cup). Perhaps also (they may get to officiate) at the SEA Games, Asian Games, Thai King’s Cup in other countries and so on,’ he said.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency