The Sports Commissioner's Office (SCO) still recognise the embattled Sepak Takraw Association of Malaysia (STAM) as the governing body for the sport in the country — for now at least.
Sports Commissioner Ibrahim Yusof said the SCO have not given up hope on STAM just yet.
On Thursday, the Asian Sepak Takraw Federation (Astaf) disciplinary panel expelled STAM for various reasons.
STAM have 14 days to appeal.
"We are aware of the decision by Astaf to expel STAM, and we respect it," said Ibrahim in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
"We understand that STAM have 14 days to appeal.
"We hope they will use this opportunity to do so and follow the necessary procedures. We will wait and see what happens after 14 days.
"However, we have to remember that STAM are registered under the Sports Development Act 1997 (SDA), and unless they are de-registered, they remain a legitimate body and are free to conduct activities here.
"This is based on the Malaysian SDA. Astaf are different as they (govern) Asia and (subsequently) STAM's involvement at the Asian level may be limited."
Ibrahim stated that STAM will not be automatically de-registered if they decide not to appeal.
To be de-registered, STAM would have to call for an extraordinary general meeting where no less than two-thirds of members must agree.
While the SCO appear to have a soft stance, Ibrahim made it clear that he does have the authority to take stern action, if necessary.
"The SCO will only intervene if the development of sepak takraw is affected," added Ibrahim.
"If you look at rule 21(B) of the SDA, the SCO have the authority to de-register an association."
He is also aware of plans to set up a rival national body but is taking a wait and see approach.
"There is talk about setting up a new national body, but these are only suggestions at the moment. I cannot comment based on assumptions.
"We will wait to see if there are any applications. If there are, we will evaluate to see if they are suitable."
STAM's ongoing feud with Astaf has caused disillusionment among their affiliates. Nine states — Perak, Negri Sembilan, Sarawak, Johor, Putrajaya, Kelantan, Selangor, Kedah and Terengganu — have severed ties with the national body.
