KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Silambam Association (MSA) president Dr M. Suraess has dismissed allegations surrounding his recent re-election and the association’s governance, claiming the attacks are being driven by individuals unhappy with the progress made under his leadership.
His remarks come after sources from the Silambam fraternity told Scoop that questions had been raised over the conduct of the MSA election last month, including claims that a proper remedial process was not carried out following allegations of misconduct linked to the organisation of the International Silambam Championship in Sepang in 2024.
Sources also alleged that eight out of the 16 of the association’s affiliates did not support Suraess’ leadership and had opposed his successful re-election as president.
Pointing to increased public awareness, international exposure and the establishment of a recognised international governing body for Silambam, Suraess told Scoop that critics were attempting to discredit achievements that have elevated the sport’s standing in Malaysia and abroad.
Suraess rejected the allegations and insisted all governance matters had been scrutinised and resolved through the appropriate channels.
“Allegations can be made by anyone. Anybody can make accusations, but facts remain facts. We had our AGM, we had our election and the process was completed according to the rules. If there was really an issue, there were avenues available for them to challenge my eligibility before the election took place.They had every opportunity to do so.
“The Sports Commissioner’s office looked into the matter and made their decision. If there was genuinely a case against me, I would not even have been allowed to contest for the election.”
According to Suraess, the election result itself reflected the wishes of the majority of members.
“The election is the remedy. If someone claims they have the support of the majority, then prove it through the ballot box. We went through the process and the members made their choice.
“The reality is that I won the election. Once the election is completed and the decision has been made, everyone should respect the outcome and move forward for the good of the sport.”
Suraess also disputed claims that he lacked support within the association, maintaining that he continues to enjoy the backing of the majority of state affiliates and council members.
“I have the council’s and affiliates’ support. Despite everything that has been said, I still met and spoke with those on the other side because my intention was always to unite the association and focus on development of the sport.
“My concern has never been positions or politics. My concern is the future of Silambam.”
The outspoken administrator argued that much of the criticism stemmed from frustration over the association’s progress since he assumed office in 2023.
“Before 2023, how many people in Malaysia knew about Silambam? Since I became president, our athletes have participated in international competitions and that has created exposure for the athletes and the sport.
“When you start producing results and bringing recognition to the sport, people begin attacking you. If you do nothing, nobody talks about you. But when you work and achieve something, suddenly everyone has something to say.”
Among the achievements he highlighted was the establishment of a recognised international federation for the sport, something he claimed previous administrators had failed to accomplish despite decades of involvement.
“The international federation concept was first introduced in 1994. Those who are criticising me today were involved for almost 30 years, yet they could not establish a properly recognised international federation.
“Within three years, we managed to form the international federation and secure recognition for it. It is now legitimate and accepted by the relevant authorities.
“They had 30 years and could not do it. We did it in three years. People can judge for themselves who is genuinely working for the sport and who is simply interested in politics.”
Suraess insisted the allegations would not derail the association’s plans, saying MSA remains focused on expanding participation, strengthening grassroots development and pursuing greater recognition for Silambam at the regional and international levels.
“At the end of the day, history will judge us based on what we have achieved for the sport, not on the allegations people make. What matters is development, and that is exactly what we have been delivering,” he said. – June 22, 2026