KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Karate Federation (Makaf) has stated that it will not support the establishment of illegal karate centres in the country, expressing concerns that such actions could damage the governing body’s reputation in the long run.
The federation’s response follows the partial demolition of a karate training centre in Taman Sri Sinar, Segambut, by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Federal Territories Land and Mines Office on August 7.
The Taman Sri Sinar centre, reportedly operating for over three decades, gained public attention when a viral video showed a large crowd trying to prevent the demolition.
Some individuals appealed to Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh for intervention, while young Kelantan karate exponents who were preparing for the recently concluded Sukma questioned where they could train.
The Federal Territories Land Office had granted the operator a 30-day grace period to remove their belongings.
Speaking to Scoop, Makaf president Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad praised the government’s decision regarding the karate centre and urged DBKL not to give in to public pressure.
“We can’t do much about this issue, as we learned from DBKL that the centre in Taman Sri Sinar is indeed built on illegal premises. If Makaf ends up helping them, it will ruin our image, and we will be seen as a governing body that supports wrongdoing.
“The centre was intended for public use, but it is clear that it has been misused and treated as a private facility. This is unfair to locals, especially those who need access to the facilities.
“I believe it’s time for them to find a new place with the proper licences and relocate. Makaf has several training centres throughout the country, including in Kuala Lumpur, and athletes are welcome to train at our centres.
“We cannot support those who deliberately establish illegal centres and run unauthorised programmes. They must adhere to proper guidelines and procedures. Issues like this will continue if they don’t follow the authorities’ regulations,” Azmi added.
The Taman Sri Sinar karate centre, known as Hayashi Ha Karate Federation, has produced several notable athletes – including Thiagu Ponniyah (Asian Junior Karate Championships gold medallist), Datuk Arivalagan Ponniyah (Asian Senior Karate Championships gold medallist), R. Puvaneswaran (two-time Asian Games gold medallist), Yamini Gopalasamy, Vasantha Marial Anthony, and Vathana Gopalasamy (Asian Senior Karate Championship gold medallist). – September 3, 2024