THE volleyball coach who slapped two teenage female players at a tournament in Johor has apologised publicly for his action.

Saiful Hadee Amar, 44, regretted his behaviour and is willing to face any sanction over the December 16 incident.

“I did not intend to cause injuries… my action is to fire up their spirit and motivate them in each match,” he said in a press conference at the Malacca State Sports Council office in Krubong today.

“I wish to apologise to all players, especially the two involved, the parents, my own club Mastanah and the Malaysian Volleyball Association (Mava) as well as the volleyball community in Malaysia.”

Also present were State Youth Development, Sports and Non-Governmental Organisations Committee chairman V.P. Shanmugam, National Sports Council (MSN) director-general Ahmad Shapawi Ismail and Malacca MSN director Asri Ninggal.

The parents of the two players were also present.

Saiful said in the training the players, he uses various approaches, which could be psychological, intensive and physical.

“I do it to raise their spirit as a player to fight for every victory… the players are my family and my source of strength. Without them, I cannot be a coach,” he said.

“I am prepared to face any action. I hope this will be a lesson for myself.”

Shanmugam said all decisions to be taken against Saiful will be decided by Mava after its investigation with the Education Ministry is completed.

He said among the actions that can be imposed on Saiful is either suspending or terminating his service as the coach of the Malacca under-14 (women) volleyball team.

“Despite the apology and understanding between the coach and the parents, the matter needs to be properly investigated as it has received the attention of various parties,” he said.

“The coach’s position is divided into several levels. Firstly, the investigation by the state government over the viral video.

“Secondly, he also serves the Education Ministry Education, so its integrity unit will conduct further investigations.”

Earlier, a video went viral showing the coach slapping two players while guiding the Malacca team in the Under-14 Youth Volleyball Championship.

The incident also attracted reactions from various parties, including Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, who wanted the appropriate action to be taken over the matter. – Bernama, January 4, 2023.