Leon Brown said that " In the end, you deserve what you get. The amount of effort you put in determines your joy and happiness." Looking at the background of Malaysian hockey and the manoeuvres that have taken place to keep out deserving candidates in becoming contestants, one can see that it is a reflection of the greed for power. Unfortunately, the greed is not reciprocated by the performances of the Management and the teams both in and out of the field. Endeavouring to sustain power by whatever means is an indication that the Affiliates lack the capacity to take on the Management and change them. How right was Leon Brown, and it fits very well insofar as to the Malaysian Hockey Affiliates ie no joy and happiness. Sad isn't it?
"Promises are only as strong as the person who gives them" per Stephen Richards. It is a measurement of one's character and nature to honour the promise. When a promise is not fulfilled it raises the fundamental question of integrity and the true colours of the personalities. One wonders if the future promises of such people can ever be believed.
It was made known that if Malaysia does not qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics for hockey, the key personalities promised not to seek re-election. Up till then the performance of both the men and women teams was very questionable, the various local tournaments did not attract sufficient quality teams and as a result, hockey was losing popular support. Development programmes lost their way and never recovered. Most Committees were only in name and failed to achieve their purposes. The list can continue including mounting debts.
The gentlemanly approach would have been to accept the fact that as Office Bearers they had been unable to deliver in their 4 years at the helm and therefore they must allow others to do a better job ie the bigger picture and for the good of Malaysian hockey. Such was not the case. Rather, and to compound it, they failed to conduct an independent nomination plus election procedure, tantamounting to having " a loaded dice" and ensuring all potential challenges were fizzled out. This ensured that a potential contestant was disqualified based on some mind-boggling action of an Affiliate having submitted an official nomination which was approved and another submitted independently by its President. This seems to be like a premeditated action to derail the contestant who is a renowned entrepreneur.
This whole episode begs the question as to why such personalities want to hold on to power by whatever means despite their failure to deliver. Are the Affiliates so dull as not to comprehend such matters? Were some strange commitments made such that the future of Malaysian hockey is completely forgotten for the sake of other needs?
What further baffles me is the slow-moving nature of the Sports Commissioner and the Ministry of Sports in not intervening expeditiously to bring a sense of sanity to Malaysian hockey. I think many written complaints have been made of this procedural saga and yet the Malaysian Hockey Congress is set to proceed on the 16th of November with the elections.
My mind goes into "mental gymnastics" questioning how Malaysian sports could ever achieve standards of excellence when the personalities who helm Sports bodies do various things to sustain power, moreso when they fail to deliver the expected results. Yet the Sports authorities seem to move at a "snail's pace" and nothing is being done to rectify the situation. Do such authorities only exist for "window dressing" to provide some form of optics? Maybe it is the local maxim " style mesti ada, kalah tidak apa"! If that is so we shall remain in a "3rd world mentality" trying to compete with "1st World" nations. Maybe that is why we are always on the losing end.
This whole saga in Malaysian hockey needs only a simple process to rectify it. An independent check of the Affiliate would indicate the truth of the matter. Thereupon a decision can be made to permit a true and fair election giving all contestants time to canvass for support.
I sincerely hope that if the Sports authorities do not act to postpone the elections on the 16th of November, the Affiliates would be enlightened and act responsibly to ensure that it is postponed. The future of Malaysian hockey is in the Affiliates' hands, which means that their efforts can bring joy and happiness to Malaysians. Affiliates, please be bold enough to take such steps. You will be remembered for changing the face of Malaysian hockey at this crucial moment.
V M Chandran
15th Nov 2019.
Friday, November 15, 2019
MALAYSIAN HOCKEY AT CROSSROAD: FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION -PART 2: CONGRESS By Maninderjit Singh (Mike)
An interesting article was written by Mike akin to a hockey game and ending with a report on the game. A game where the umpires and video referral umpire is appointed by one team and the opponent has a choice whether to play the game or withdraw.
Mike's voice of his heart is as below:-
“FOR HONOUR & PRIDE OF MALAYSIA”
The month of November 2019 is a crucial stage, as the Malaysian Men’s Hockey Team plays Great Britain for the final slot to Tokyo 2020 Olympics on 2nd & 3rd Nov in London. On the 8th of November, FIH would announce the host of top events such as Men’s & Women’s World Cup. And the important key event, the MHC Congress is slated for 16th November 2019 as to elect the new Office Bearers to chart the future of Malaysian Hockey for the term 2019-2023.
Updates: Malaysia failed to qualify for Tokyo 2020 & lost both the bids for hosting Men & Women’s FIH World Cup. Down 0-3 and the Shoot-Out is on the 16th Nov 2019 but both key positions won via technical walkover.
CONGRESS
Synopsis
MATCH STARTS: EB MEETING dated 21st September 2019
FIRST QUARTER: TURNOVER PLAY OF POSITIONS
SECOND QUARTER: CAPTAIN MANAGING THE ATTACK WITH AFFILIATES IN LONDON & VICE CAPTAIN DEFENDING & MANAGING NOMINATIONS IN KL
THIRD QUARTER: SCORELESS & OPPONENT LOOKS DANGEROUS
FOURTH QUARTER: PANICKED & SOUGHT FOR VIDEO REFERRAL & SUCCESSFUL
AFTER MATCH: APPEAL SUBMITTED TO AUTHORITY, PENDING DECISION
PRIZE GIVING: CONGRESS ON 16TH NOV 2019
POST MATCH INTERVIEW: OPERATION SUCCESSFUL BUT PATIENT DIES & FUTURE LOOKS BLEAK
The Rest…
1. Notice
- Why is called 66th when MHC was only formed & approved by Sports Commissioner in the year 2006. Even the MHC logo carries “Est 1953” which is the previous history of MHF that has ceased its operation in 2011 to meet the membership requirements of FIH Statue.
- On the 21st September 2019, EB was called and during that period it was sent by General Manager and it wasn’t acting CEO. All of sudden, the Election process needs a CEO who is the Head of General Secretariat (a requirement in the Constitution) for communication for the Notice & election processes. With this, the Congress Notice was signed by Acting CEO. In 4 years, hold 3 positions ie Office Manager, General Manager & Acting CEO.
- The Nomination closed before both matches of Tokyo Olympic qualifiers. It indicates that they were not confident of the team’s capabilities and the timing of the paid tour to Affiliates will comprehend their plan. They're Off the Field tactical plan & strategy is much greater than the Head Coach’s gameplan against Great Britain.
- After reading the previous Minutes of 2018 AGM, on page 14, the President provided a written statement that he would step down if fail to qualify for Tokyo 2020.
2. Affiliates
- A total of 32 Votes will decide the fate of 32 million people. And to sustain power you need Votes. The incumbent leaders knew the weaknesses of the Affiliates. Grants, Tours & Appointments were provided as they need only 17 votes to get a seat.
- My friends use to say that “everybody can be bought” but there is a price. Strangely, this ongoing episode conforms to their saying. The world is in shortage of “genuine mankind”.
- Based on the Constitution, the names of the 2 delegates to be submitted before 48 hours but in the notice, it says by the 8th November. You all know the reason why this was done.
- The weakness of Affiliates are:
1. Role of Affiliates other than attending Meetings, Participation in Competition & Votes, has not been defined.
2. Usually takes a passive position
3. Competency questionable
4. Depends on MHC & State funding
5. A Clique system has developed & too much politicking
6. Lack of Marketing Skills to generate income
7. No clear strategy or directions
8. Lack of Employment Opportunities for State or National players
3. Election
- Kedah Hockey Association had used 2 different kinds of Letter Heads for communication on their final list of nominations. The President of KHA is also the Honorary Secretary of Kedah Football Association – it takes two to tango. KHA Secretary post is based on the election and not by appointment, therefore, he is entitled to every communication & decision made by KHA. By-passing the Secretary would lead towards an unhealthy issue. Really hope that the recording & minutes with attendance of the KHA Council could be made public to erase the doubt & clear the air of differences that there was a third-hand involvement.
- When an election is a hold, a professional body would be appointed and act as an Independent Panel for vetting processes & a Returning Officer will manage the procedures for the Election. Previously, the NSA would write into OCM to play the leading role i.e. Vetting & Election but for some reason for this year’s election, it is done otherwise.
- Currently, the Judge, Jury & Executioner of the whole proceedings are managed internally but not by General Secretariat rather than a Legal Committee. Not only justice must be done but also seen to be done. A situation in which a person is in a position to derive personal benefit from actions or decisions made in their official capacity. You make the judgment!
- The term natural justice signifies basic principles of justice, which concern procedural fairness and ensure a fair decision is reached by an objective decision-maker. You make the judgment whether this conduct adhered.
4. Withdrawal of Nomination
- The current incumbents knew that if there is a challenge in the post, it would be tough to sustain as they have failed 2 Olympic Cycles – 2016 Rio & 2020 Tokyo & promising to be Top 8 in World Hockey by 2018.
- The Challengers were a combination of “Royalty, Corporate Figures & Former Internationals” led by Air Asia Chairman. And the quality of the Manifesto was very specific, measurable, achievable, reliable & timely. This combination will provide the sports with great ideas of commercialisation & the “technical & hockey knowledge” to push the sports in the right direction.
- Actually, the candidate could withdraw before or on the Election Day as the Constitution is silent but the notice says by the 8th November. You all know why this was done! Error or on purpose?
- For the last 10 days, the Media have highlighted the facts & details of the pertinent issues that this team was disqualified. Sad to note that current Media plays or takes sides and dictates which team to support. The rare breed of Media such as George Das, Fauzi Omar, R Velu, Lazarus Rokk, Johnson Fernandez, Mustapha Kamaruddin, S Ramaguru, Frankie D Cruz, Satwant Singh, Rosmanizam, Ashok, Greg Nunis, Haresh Deol, Randhir Singh, Vijhay Vick, MK Megan, S Navalan, Tony Mariadass and others who have played a pivotal role in the promotion & development of Malaysian sports without playing politics and providing the real hard facts about the situation & the way forward. That was the difference during the best years of Malaysian sports.
- A total of nine (9) withdrawals has taken place as of today. It doesn’t reflect & augur well about Malaysian Hockey. The sports is bleeding badly and require a “CPR” to bring it alive again at World Stage.
5. Congress 2019
- Congress will be held on the 16th of November 2019. Key agenda to elect other Office Bearers as President & Deputy President – Women won unopposed. Actually, this was the 2 key positions that will determine the future of Malaysian Hockey but they were given the mandate to lead and continue for the next 4 years. A good leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way. A term was given 2015-2019 but without desirable results. Another term, will Malaysian hockey qualify for Paris 2024 Olympics, you all make the judgment!
- All key components of the Sports – National Team, Development, Junior Program, Coaching & Competitions are in dire straits. I read the 2018 AGM reports but no indications provided on what the real future plan is in store for Malaysian Hockey. Nothing factual and is mainly about “Perception over reality” reporting.
- With only 17 votes to be an Office Bearer & chart the future of Malaysian Hockey for next term. I suggest imposing an additional process ie Vetting Process with Criteria for Nomination before his/her Nomination is accepted by an independent panel. For an example – a minimum level of Hockey played at State/National Level; Served Min 4-6 years at the Affiliate level; funded a min of 250k for hockey. Different positions will define different criteria's for Nomination. It must also open the Affiliates to MHL&MJHL Club teams to participate and vote in for the future of Malaysian hockey.
- Sports belong to its people & Nation and it means that sports are bigger than any individual or organisation. Voices from hockey lovers & Former International is crucial.
Currently, the Sports itself stands at proverbial crossroads, where change is necessary in order to revive it from the results the team has suffered in recent Tokyo Olympic Qualifiers.
Any improvement to the dire status quo can only be facilitated if we have a team of officials who not only love the game of hockey dearly but also are prepared to make hard and right decisions, listen to stakeholders, merit-based performance plans and sacrifice their time and commitment to the cause.
Sometimes we learn and who we become in the process of waiting is even more important than what we’re waiting for. Happiness depends on your willingness to live an authentic life where your behavior lines up with your values. Cheating may help you get ahead, but you’ll lose more in the end!
May God save Malaysian Hockey.....
When time permits, I will continue to write Part 3: Future of Malaysian Hockey.
Thanking you...
Maninderjit Singh (Mike)
Former Hockey International
14th November 2019
Mike's voice of his heart is as below:-
“FOR HONOUR & PRIDE OF MALAYSIA”
The month of November 2019 is a crucial stage, as the Malaysian Men’s Hockey Team plays Great Britain for the final slot to Tokyo 2020 Olympics on 2nd & 3rd Nov in London. On the 8th of November, FIH would announce the host of top events such as Men’s & Women’s World Cup. And the important key event, the MHC Congress is slated for 16th November 2019 as to elect the new Office Bearers to chart the future of Malaysian Hockey for the term 2019-2023.
Updates: Malaysia failed to qualify for Tokyo 2020 & lost both the bids for hosting Men & Women’s FIH World Cup. Down 0-3 and the Shoot-Out is on the 16th Nov 2019 but both key positions won via technical walkover.
CONGRESS
Synopsis
MATCH STARTS: EB MEETING dated 21st September 2019
FIRST QUARTER: TURNOVER PLAY OF POSITIONS
SECOND QUARTER: CAPTAIN MANAGING THE ATTACK WITH AFFILIATES IN LONDON & VICE CAPTAIN DEFENDING & MANAGING NOMINATIONS IN KL
THIRD QUARTER: SCORELESS & OPPONENT LOOKS DANGEROUS
FOURTH QUARTER: PANICKED & SOUGHT FOR VIDEO REFERRAL & SUCCESSFUL
AFTER MATCH: APPEAL SUBMITTED TO AUTHORITY, PENDING DECISION
PRIZE GIVING: CONGRESS ON 16TH NOV 2019
POST MATCH INTERVIEW: OPERATION SUCCESSFUL BUT PATIENT DIES & FUTURE LOOKS BLEAK
The Rest…
1. Notice
- Why is called 66th when MHC was only formed & approved by Sports Commissioner in the year 2006. Even the MHC logo carries “Est 1953” which is the previous history of MHF that has ceased its operation in 2011 to meet the membership requirements of FIH Statue.
- On the 21st September 2019, EB was called and during that period it was sent by General Manager and it wasn’t acting CEO. All of sudden, the Election process needs a CEO who is the Head of General Secretariat (a requirement in the Constitution) for communication for the Notice & election processes. With this, the Congress Notice was signed by Acting CEO. In 4 years, hold 3 positions ie Office Manager, General Manager & Acting CEO.
- The Nomination closed before both matches of Tokyo Olympic qualifiers. It indicates that they were not confident of the team’s capabilities and the timing of the paid tour to Affiliates will comprehend their plan. They're Off the Field tactical plan & strategy is much greater than the Head Coach’s gameplan against Great Britain.
- After reading the previous Minutes of 2018 AGM, on page 14, the President provided a written statement that he would step down if fail to qualify for Tokyo 2020.
2. Affiliates
- A total of 32 Votes will decide the fate of 32 million people. And to sustain power you need Votes. The incumbent leaders knew the weaknesses of the Affiliates. Grants, Tours & Appointments were provided as they need only 17 votes to get a seat.
- My friends use to say that “everybody can be bought” but there is a price. Strangely, this ongoing episode conforms to their saying. The world is in shortage of “genuine mankind”.
- Based on the Constitution, the names of the 2 delegates to be submitted before 48 hours but in the notice, it says by the 8th November. You all know the reason why this was done.
- The weakness of Affiliates are:
1. Role of Affiliates other than attending Meetings, Participation in Competition & Votes, has not been defined.
2. Usually takes a passive position
3. Competency questionable
4. Depends on MHC & State funding
5. A Clique system has developed & too much politicking
6. Lack of Marketing Skills to generate income
7. No clear strategy or directions
8. Lack of Employment Opportunities for State or National players
3. Election
- Kedah Hockey Association had used 2 different kinds of Letter Heads for communication on their final list of nominations. The President of KHA is also the Honorary Secretary of Kedah Football Association – it takes two to tango. KHA Secretary post is based on the election and not by appointment, therefore, he is entitled to every communication & decision made by KHA. By-passing the Secretary would lead towards an unhealthy issue. Really hope that the recording & minutes with attendance of the KHA Council could be made public to erase the doubt & clear the air of differences that there was a third-hand involvement.
- When an election is a hold, a professional body would be appointed and act as an Independent Panel for vetting processes & a Returning Officer will manage the procedures for the Election. Previously, the NSA would write into OCM to play the leading role i.e. Vetting & Election but for some reason for this year’s election, it is done otherwise.
- Currently, the Judge, Jury & Executioner of the whole proceedings are managed internally but not by General Secretariat rather than a Legal Committee. Not only justice must be done but also seen to be done. A situation in which a person is in a position to derive personal benefit from actions or decisions made in their official capacity. You make the judgment!
- The term natural justice signifies basic principles of justice, which concern procedural fairness and ensure a fair decision is reached by an objective decision-maker. You make the judgment whether this conduct adhered.
4. Withdrawal of Nomination
- The current incumbents knew that if there is a challenge in the post, it would be tough to sustain as they have failed 2 Olympic Cycles – 2016 Rio & 2020 Tokyo & promising to be Top 8 in World Hockey by 2018.
- The Challengers were a combination of “Royalty, Corporate Figures & Former Internationals” led by Air Asia Chairman. And the quality of the Manifesto was very specific, measurable, achievable, reliable & timely. This combination will provide the sports with great ideas of commercialisation & the “technical & hockey knowledge” to push the sports in the right direction.
- Actually, the candidate could withdraw before or on the Election Day as the Constitution is silent but the notice says by the 8th November. You all know why this was done! Error or on purpose?
- For the last 10 days, the Media have highlighted the facts & details of the pertinent issues that this team was disqualified. Sad to note that current Media plays or takes sides and dictates which team to support. The rare breed of Media such as George Das, Fauzi Omar, R Velu, Lazarus Rokk, Johnson Fernandez, Mustapha Kamaruddin, S Ramaguru, Frankie D Cruz, Satwant Singh, Rosmanizam, Ashok, Greg Nunis, Haresh Deol, Randhir Singh, Vijhay Vick, MK Megan, S Navalan, Tony Mariadass and others who have played a pivotal role in the promotion & development of Malaysian sports without playing politics and providing the real hard facts about the situation & the way forward. That was the difference during the best years of Malaysian sports.
- A total of nine (9) withdrawals has taken place as of today. It doesn’t reflect & augur well about Malaysian Hockey. The sports is bleeding badly and require a “CPR” to bring it alive again at World Stage.
5. Congress 2019
- Congress will be held on the 16th of November 2019. Key agenda to elect other Office Bearers as President & Deputy President – Women won unopposed. Actually, this was the 2 key positions that will determine the future of Malaysian Hockey but they were given the mandate to lead and continue for the next 4 years. A good leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way. A term was given 2015-2019 but without desirable results. Another term, will Malaysian hockey qualify for Paris 2024 Olympics, you all make the judgment!
- All key components of the Sports – National Team, Development, Junior Program, Coaching & Competitions are in dire straits. I read the 2018 AGM reports but no indications provided on what the real future plan is in store for Malaysian Hockey. Nothing factual and is mainly about “Perception over reality” reporting.
- With only 17 votes to be an Office Bearer & chart the future of Malaysian Hockey for next term. I suggest imposing an additional process ie Vetting Process with Criteria for Nomination before his/her Nomination is accepted by an independent panel. For an example – a minimum level of Hockey played at State/National Level; Served Min 4-6 years at the Affiliate level; funded a min of 250k for hockey. Different positions will define different criteria's for Nomination. It must also open the Affiliates to MHL&MJHL Club teams to participate and vote in for the future of Malaysian hockey.
- Sports belong to its people & Nation and it means that sports are bigger than any individual or organisation. Voices from hockey lovers & Former International is crucial.
Currently, the Sports itself stands at proverbial crossroads, where change is necessary in order to revive it from the results the team has suffered in recent Tokyo Olympic Qualifiers.
Any improvement to the dire status quo can only be facilitated if we have a team of officials who not only love the game of hockey dearly but also are prepared to make hard and right decisions, listen to stakeholders, merit-based performance plans and sacrifice their time and commitment to the cause.
Sometimes we learn and who we become in the process of waiting is even more important than what we’re waiting for. Happiness depends on your willingness to live an authentic life where your behavior lines up with your values. Cheating may help you get ahead, but you’ll lose more in the end!
May God save Malaysian Hockey.....
When time permits, I will continue to write Part 3: Future of Malaysian Hockey.
Thanking you...
Maninderjit Singh (Mike)
Former Hockey International
14th November 2019
Friday, November 8, 2019
Malaysian Hockey-"Gerrymandering Or An Inadvertent Error?" Is There A Need To Postpone The Elections?By Mr.V.M.Chandran
Malaysia's men and women failed to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Malaysian hockey seems devastated as though it has gone through a war. Believe me or not a " war" seems to be developing as to whether a free and fair election would be held.
The incumbents are clutching on to the straw and hanging for survival for their re-election. Their term has been very colourful for the wrong reasons. Most of the matters that they promised have not been fulfilled. It simply shows that the standard of hockey in Malaysia is at the doldrums.
In the words of the great scientist Einstein, " Insanity!!! Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results." I wonder whether this is what has been happening in Malaysian hockey? The modus operandi and the resulting failures seem to be a mirror image of the happenings in Malaysian hockey.
Yet! The saddest aspect of all this is that the Affiliates have not come to realise it. There seems to be a "herd mentality" ie like a flock of sheep being led to the slaughterhouse. The fact that the Affiliates can tolerate the dismal state of affairs in Malaysian hockey, could also mean that they are sort of "accessories" to the whole scenario.
It would seem that the Affiliates have failed to be a check and balance of the President and his team. The Affiliates have failed to take responsibility and exercise the powers to continuously review the performance of the personalities that they selected to lead Malaysian hockey. This has given those who helm Malaysian hockey the freedom to do what they want including bringing the whole sport to such a pathetic state.
I raise this issue because it would seem the total disinterest is seen reflected in the way the nomination process for Office Bearers has been conducted. "Free and fair" must not be purely spoken words but rather must manifest in actions. When a process fails to have independent scrutinisers to conduct the process of nomination including vetting the forms, it can encourage uncalled-for events. When that happens the 1st wave of thinking would inevitably point fingers at the incumbents, especially if they are seeking re-election. Compounding the matter would be the storylines of unsavoury issues that have taken place prior to nomination. Rumours of free tickets and spending monies for Affiliates to attend the 2020 Olympic hockey qualifiers in London can be very troubling.
On Nomination itself, the forms for contestants for the various posts had to be filed. For both President and Deputy Presidents the pre-qualification is to have 3 nominations. After Malaysia's on the field disaster in London, there was a mood for change. There was no doubt the incumbent President was to be challenged by the prominent Entrepreneur who had with his main partner built one of the largest budget airlines in Asia over a 10 year period. A graduate of Actuarial Science with good Banking and Investment capital background with stints in assisting managing an English Football club, he offered himself as a candidate for President. He was coming in with a team of former internationals and hockey administrators.
David Seabury stated, " because of fear, life is a mockery and out of it comes despair". How adept this statement is in the current crisis in Malaysian hockey, considering that the only contestant against the incumbent President was disqualified. The official version was that he had only 2 nominations as opposed to the 3 that were required.
A very strange reasoning because the contestant believes he had 3 and on an investigation, a State Affiliate had provided his name after the endorsement of its Council which was a Constitutional requirement. However, mysteriously the President of the State Affiliate had later independently sent a letter nominating the incumbent. This is where the "mockery" begins.
The "despair" aspect relates to the disqualification of the Entrepreneur, thereby killing the element of free choice by the Affiliates. Rather than being magnanimous about it and permitting the nomination to remain until proper investigations have been undertaken and a decision made prior to the election date, an immediate "amputation" of the contestant was done. This thereby permits the incumbent President to return "uncontested", a position by whichever ways and reasons he would want to retain.
Is this the end of this developing saga? The whole episode is a mess and it is surprising that the Sports Authorities, namely the Sports Commissioner and Ministry of Sports, do not seem to have the sense to act upon urgently. First and foremost the whole election process must be suspended pending a full investigation by the Authorities. Meantime all incumbents must vacate their positions and allow a Working Committee appointed by the Authorities to conduct the basic affairs of Malaysian hockey for the interim period. Thereupon on completion of an investigation, conduct a fair and free election and hand over the helm to the new Committee.
If this is done, we are bringing back a sense of sanity to the Administration of Malaysian Hockey. Do not let fear be the father and mother of mockery and despair of Malaysian hockey. Malaysian hockey has to move forward. The game is bigger than the people who resist change.
V M Chandran
Nov 2019.
The incumbents are clutching on to the straw and hanging for survival for their re-election. Their term has been very colourful for the wrong reasons. Most of the matters that they promised have not been fulfilled. It simply shows that the standard of hockey in Malaysia is at the doldrums.
In the words of the great scientist Einstein, " Insanity!!! Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results." I wonder whether this is what has been happening in Malaysian hockey? The modus operandi and the resulting failures seem to be a mirror image of the happenings in Malaysian hockey.
Yet! The saddest aspect of all this is that the Affiliates have not come to realise it. There seems to be a "herd mentality" ie like a flock of sheep being led to the slaughterhouse. The fact that the Affiliates can tolerate the dismal state of affairs in Malaysian hockey, could also mean that they are sort of "accessories" to the whole scenario.
It would seem that the Affiliates have failed to be a check and balance of the President and his team. The Affiliates have failed to take responsibility and exercise the powers to continuously review the performance of the personalities that they selected to lead Malaysian hockey. This has given those who helm Malaysian hockey the freedom to do what they want including bringing the whole sport to such a pathetic state.
I raise this issue because it would seem the total disinterest is seen reflected in the way the nomination process for Office Bearers has been conducted. "Free and fair" must not be purely spoken words but rather must manifest in actions. When a process fails to have independent scrutinisers to conduct the process of nomination including vetting the forms, it can encourage uncalled-for events. When that happens the 1st wave of thinking would inevitably point fingers at the incumbents, especially if they are seeking re-election. Compounding the matter would be the storylines of unsavoury issues that have taken place prior to nomination. Rumours of free tickets and spending monies for Affiliates to attend the 2020 Olympic hockey qualifiers in London can be very troubling.
On Nomination itself, the forms for contestants for the various posts had to be filed. For both President and Deputy Presidents the pre-qualification is to have 3 nominations. After Malaysia's on the field disaster in London, there was a mood for change. There was no doubt the incumbent President was to be challenged by the prominent Entrepreneur who had with his main partner built one of the largest budget airlines in Asia over a 10 year period. A graduate of Actuarial Science with good Banking and Investment capital background with stints in assisting managing an English Football club, he offered himself as a candidate for President. He was coming in with a team of former internationals and hockey administrators.
David Seabury stated, " because of fear, life is a mockery and out of it comes despair". How adept this statement is in the current crisis in Malaysian hockey, considering that the only contestant against the incumbent President was disqualified. The official version was that he had only 2 nominations as opposed to the 3 that were required.
A very strange reasoning because the contestant believes he had 3 and on an investigation, a State Affiliate had provided his name after the endorsement of its Council which was a Constitutional requirement. However, mysteriously the President of the State Affiliate had later independently sent a letter nominating the incumbent. This is where the "mockery" begins.
The "despair" aspect relates to the disqualification of the Entrepreneur, thereby killing the element of free choice by the Affiliates. Rather than being magnanimous about it and permitting the nomination to remain until proper investigations have been undertaken and a decision made prior to the election date, an immediate "amputation" of the contestant was done. This thereby permits the incumbent President to return "uncontested", a position by whichever ways and reasons he would want to retain.
Is this the end of this developing saga? The whole episode is a mess and it is surprising that the Sports Authorities, namely the Sports Commissioner and Ministry of Sports, do not seem to have the sense to act upon urgently. First and foremost the whole election process must be suspended pending a full investigation by the Authorities. Meantime all incumbents must vacate their positions and allow a Working Committee appointed by the Authorities to conduct the basic affairs of Malaysian hockey for the interim period. Thereupon on completion of an investigation, conduct a fair and free election and hand over the helm to the new Committee.
If this is done, we are bringing back a sense of sanity to the Administration of Malaysian Hockey. Do not let fear be the father and mother of mockery and despair of Malaysian hockey. Malaysian hockey has to move forward. The game is bigger than the people who resist change.
V M Chandran
Nov 2019.
Wednesday, November 6, 2019
A Revolutionary Approach To Malaysian Hockey Election - "The need for achievable sustainable programs that will not shortchange the created expectations."By Mr.V.M.Chandran
Historically people who want to helm Sports Associations make all sorts of "promises" as to what they can bring to the game. Sort of an election manifesto which is laced with promises that literally try to get the "cow to jump over the moon". They tend to look and sound so tempting that Affiliates get carried away with such promises.
Once elected, during the first few months there seems to be great enthusiasm to perform. Then when the mundane matters settle in and issues develop with "hormone" levels dipping, the reality seeps in. The "climate" seems different from when the promises were made. Changes are made and the planned arrest of the deterioration is shelved. The anticipated changes never take place and the Affiliates with their "tidak apa" attitude allows matters to slide even further.
So when the Committee's term ends the scenario they so brilliantly painted before coming to power ends more as a " verbal diarrhoea" with classic stories of excuses. If these stories were complied it would probably be the " Best Seller".
Hence, as one term ends, the outgoing Committee walks away without delivering its promises. Hockey still remains worse off as a new set of Committee members with more promises take over, painting even rosy pictures of what they can do for the new term. This cycle continues as Malaysian hockey hits its lowest ebb. The manner in which Malaysian hockey has slid or failed to improve is directly related to the ad hoc management of the game in the country ie the failure of having sustainable targeted programs that keep hockey at the forefront.
In the past Malaysian hockey never adopted the " benefit and burden" rule. It was always a benefit mode for the President and his team. The only burden mode was accountability, and even that more often would be like "pulling the wool over the eyes" exercise. Since the burden mode on the incoming Committee has not been onerous in nature, the Committee, in acquiring a position, would wither away in undertaking a committed visionary role for Malaysian hockey.
Question? What should be done to ensure that the incoming Committee honors their promised outlined programs with targets and timeline? The burden mode must have a stringent penalty system such that the Committee knows that if what they have promised is not fulfilled, a penalty would be invoked.
Another Question? What sort of penalty would make it burdensome yet permit them to carry out their promises? Obviously, one of a monetary nature with a substantial value would deter the faint-hearted and permit the ones who know where their mouths are to play the role. Detractors of this idea would harp that only those with money can participate. They would compare it to buying a position. The outcry would be there but one has to be objective. It has to be balanced with going through empty promises with nothing against the possibility of programs being fulfilled, with the burden that failure means the confiscation of the valuable penalty.
Let's think straight!! No ordinary person would take such a challenge unless he/she knows that he/she has a team with the capacity and ability to achieve the results. This becomes the new starting point.
The Question: What penalty should be levied and what is the modus operandi? The figure I would recommend is RM 2.0 million held in "trust" which would be administered by 3 or 5 independent Trustees with terms of reference. The "promised programs and targets with timelines shall be the core subject matter of the trust. The events leading to the invocation of penalty or redeeming of such in favour of the Donor ie President of incoming Committee shall be detailed for the Trustees to act upon.
I am the first to admit that this structure is very onerous. The certainty is that the position of President and incoming Committee would not be taken lightly. It means that Malaysian hockey would not be a "playground" for people to come and hold positions of glamour and power. This process would weed many glory seekers from trying their luck at rubbing shoulders with the "Who & Who" in international hockey and our society.
It must be recognised that this cannot be a constitutional matter but rather a gentlemanly undertaking that contestants must provide before participating in the elections. Failure to do would mean that they do not trust their own promises or manifesto.
Malaysian hockey has to think outside the box to safeguard its survival as a game in the country and as a force in the international arena. Schemes like this have to be devised for quality sustainability for the future of Malaysian hockey.
V M Chandran
Nov.2019
Once elected, during the first few months there seems to be great enthusiasm to perform. Then when the mundane matters settle in and issues develop with "hormone" levels dipping, the reality seeps in. The "climate" seems different from when the promises were made. Changes are made and the planned arrest of the deterioration is shelved. The anticipated changes never take place and the Affiliates with their "tidak apa" attitude allows matters to slide even further.
So when the Committee's term ends the scenario they so brilliantly painted before coming to power ends more as a " verbal diarrhoea" with classic stories of excuses. If these stories were complied it would probably be the " Best Seller".
Hence, as one term ends, the outgoing Committee walks away without delivering its promises. Hockey still remains worse off as a new set of Committee members with more promises take over, painting even rosy pictures of what they can do for the new term. This cycle continues as Malaysian hockey hits its lowest ebb. The manner in which Malaysian hockey has slid or failed to improve is directly related to the ad hoc management of the game in the country ie the failure of having sustainable targeted programs that keep hockey at the forefront.
In the past Malaysian hockey never adopted the " benefit and burden" rule. It was always a benefit mode for the President and his team. The only burden mode was accountability, and even that more often would be like "pulling the wool over the eyes" exercise. Since the burden mode on the incoming Committee has not been onerous in nature, the Committee, in acquiring a position, would wither away in undertaking a committed visionary role for Malaysian hockey.
Question? What should be done to ensure that the incoming Committee honors their promised outlined programs with targets and timeline? The burden mode must have a stringent penalty system such that the Committee knows that if what they have promised is not fulfilled, a penalty would be invoked.
Another Question? What sort of penalty would make it burdensome yet permit them to carry out their promises? Obviously, one of a monetary nature with a substantial value would deter the faint-hearted and permit the ones who know where their mouths are to play the role. Detractors of this idea would harp that only those with money can participate. They would compare it to buying a position. The outcry would be there but one has to be objective. It has to be balanced with going through empty promises with nothing against the possibility of programs being fulfilled, with the burden that failure means the confiscation of the valuable penalty.
Let's think straight!! No ordinary person would take such a challenge unless he/she knows that he/she has a team with the capacity and ability to achieve the results. This becomes the new starting point.
The Question: What penalty should be levied and what is the modus operandi? The figure I would recommend is RM 2.0 million held in "trust" which would be administered by 3 or 5 independent Trustees with terms of reference. The "promised programs and targets with timelines shall be the core subject matter of the trust. The events leading to the invocation of penalty or redeeming of such in favour of the Donor ie President of incoming Committee shall be detailed for the Trustees to act upon.
I am the first to admit that this structure is very onerous. The certainty is that the position of President and incoming Committee would not be taken lightly. It means that Malaysian hockey would not be a "playground" for people to come and hold positions of glamour and power. This process would weed many glory seekers from trying their luck at rubbing shoulders with the "Who & Who" in international hockey and our society.
It must be recognised that this cannot be a constitutional matter but rather a gentlemanly undertaking that contestants must provide before participating in the elections. Failure to do would mean that they do not trust their own promises or manifesto.
Malaysian hockey has to think outside the box to safeguard its survival as a game in the country and as a force in the international arena. Schemes like this have to be devised for quality sustainability for the future of Malaysian hockey.
V M Chandran
Nov.2019
Tuesday, November 5, 2019
Aftermath Of A Disastrous Failure-"Imminent Need For New Blood In Malaysian Hockey"!!! By Mr.V.M.Chandran
In London on the 2nd and 3rd of November, our hockey boys and officials had to put "their tails between their legs" and walk ashamed as they were thrashed 9-3 aggregate over 2 legs for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic hockey qualifiers. Sayonara! 2020 Tokyo. Just too far for Malaysian hockey.
In the words of former Malaysian hockey vice-captain, Maninderjit Singh, popularly known as Mike, who is a regular commentator of World Hockey and in particular Malaysian hockey, we have missed the Olympic for 20 years. Yes! At least one generation of players have completely missed out and this can be dubbed as " the missing Malaysian hockey Olympic generation".
MHC is an amalgamate of the former MHF and MWHF. Today the world body FIH wants a single body so that there is no gender discrimination in governing field hockey. This is a positive thing but endeavoring to get ladies' involvement for overall administration is not an easy task barring a few exceptions. This scenario is a common bureaucratic aspect in most Asian countries. The administration of hockey is riddled with bias or rather just fitting a candidate for window dressing irrespective of whether the person can do the job.
Doing the job? This is the key question that arises with regards to current Office Bearers and the Executive Board. How do you measure their success? Obviously, there are Objective and Subjective yardsticks including taking account of the targets that they themselves have set.
On an Objective level, lets the search for outcomes:
1. Men and women failed to qualify for the 2016 and 2020 Olympics.
2. Men 2nd last in 2018 World Cup when the target was to be top 8 of the 16 teams
3. Men at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, placed 5th when the target was top 3.
4. Men at 2018 Asian Games, a commendable Silver when the target was Gold
5.Did not qualify for the 2016 Junior World Cup.
6.Participated in the 2016 Junior World Cup as a " backdoor" entry. Placed 11th when the target was top 8.
7. Homegrown annual international tournaments ie Raja Azlan Shah Trophy and Sultan Johor Cup for Juniors, in the last 4 years we were unable to engrave our name as Champions.
8. Women failed to enter the final in 2017 SEA Games Indoor hockey.
9. Women failed to enter semi-finals in the 2018 Asian Games, which was the target.
10. National hockey league has deteriorated to only 8 teams participating.
11. National Junior league has also deteriorated to 14 teams when it used to have 30 teams. Division 2 has been cancelled.
12. Mounting debts where funds are being circulated from their original purpose to fulfill urgent needs.
The unachievable targets in results and the falling numbers in Competition and even in attendance with mounting debts seem to reflect the "decaying" nature of MHC. This is a reflection that the state of affairs in Malaysian hockey is in a critical diabolical stage.
Now let's look at the other areas which are more subjective in nature.
1. The 1MAS Development programme which was financed by the PMO came to an abrupt end with the exhaustion of funds. No concrete efforts were taken to find other sources of funding for the programme.
There was no sustainability in the Development programme.
2. The Coaching Committee seems to have gone into "hibernation". They lack the enthusiasm to upgrade standards of coaching among the locals and have not taken advantage of sending them to FIH courses.
3. MHC Competition Committee has lost the shine to organise scintillating tournaments for the National League and Tun Razak. It's being done because it was done in the past. It's not marketed to draw the crowd to support the game. The shine of these tournaments is completely jaded. Hockey support at the "terraces" is of the past.
Similarly, most of the other Committees seem to face the same fate. The full time employed staff seems to give some resemblance that some forms of activities are going on in MHC.
It would be very difficult to accuse the Office Bearers that they are not doing their job. However, what is symptomatic is the lack of passionate commitment to the overall management of hockey in the country. Things do not seem to represent a vibrant purposeful mood, as comments made were taken to be negative and commentators were threatened with legal actions. Sponsors and media were whispered to, not to bring certain people on board. Such "backbiting" is a common feature and the focus for proper management has been compromised. Equally, there is a great concern for an unnecessary protocol that bears unwarranted hassle to organising events.
The list can continue but it serves no purpose in "flogging a dead horse". The Affiliates have to recognize that the administration of Malaysian Hockey needs the "Right Person with the Right qualification to undertake the Right job". There are a number of good personalities who can transform Malaysian hockey. However, the Affiliates need to give such people the room to bring a working team to get a proper roadmap to glorify Malaysian hockey. If pettiness and self-glorification exercise prevails among Affiliates then the Affiliates must realise they are placing the last few nails in the coffin for the demise of Malaysian hockey.
The Affiliates must give a chance for fresh blood to rejuvenate Malaysian hockey. The upcoming elections give the opportunity and they "must not miss the boat".
V M Chandran
Nov.2019
Acknowledgment.
Some aspects of this article have been extracted from Maninderjit Singh's article " Failure is not an option".
In the words of former Malaysian hockey vice-captain, Maninderjit Singh, popularly known as Mike, who is a regular commentator of World Hockey and in particular Malaysian hockey, we have missed the Olympic for 20 years. Yes! At least one generation of players have completely missed out and this can be dubbed as " the missing Malaysian hockey Olympic generation".
MHC is an amalgamate of the former MHF and MWHF. Today the world body FIH wants a single body so that there is no gender discrimination in governing field hockey. This is a positive thing but endeavoring to get ladies' involvement for overall administration is not an easy task barring a few exceptions. This scenario is a common bureaucratic aspect in most Asian countries. The administration of hockey is riddled with bias or rather just fitting a candidate for window dressing irrespective of whether the person can do the job.
Doing the job? This is the key question that arises with regards to current Office Bearers and the Executive Board. How do you measure their success? Obviously, there are Objective and Subjective yardsticks including taking account of the targets that they themselves have set.
On an Objective level, lets the search for outcomes:
1. Men and women failed to qualify for the 2016 and 2020 Olympics.
2. Men 2nd last in 2018 World Cup when the target was to be top 8 of the 16 teams
3. Men at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, placed 5th when the target was top 3.
4. Men at 2018 Asian Games, a commendable Silver when the target was Gold
5.Did not qualify for the 2016 Junior World Cup.
6.Participated in the 2016 Junior World Cup as a " backdoor" entry. Placed 11th when the target was top 8.
7. Homegrown annual international tournaments ie Raja Azlan Shah Trophy and Sultan Johor Cup for Juniors, in the last 4 years we were unable to engrave our name as Champions.
8. Women failed to enter the final in 2017 SEA Games Indoor hockey.
9. Women failed to enter semi-finals in the 2018 Asian Games, which was the target.
10. National hockey league has deteriorated to only 8 teams participating.
11. National Junior league has also deteriorated to 14 teams when it used to have 30 teams. Division 2 has been cancelled.
12. Mounting debts where funds are being circulated from their original purpose to fulfill urgent needs.
The unachievable targets in results and the falling numbers in Competition and even in attendance with mounting debts seem to reflect the "decaying" nature of MHC. This is a reflection that the state of affairs in Malaysian hockey is in a critical diabolical stage.
Now let's look at the other areas which are more subjective in nature.
1. The 1MAS Development programme which was financed by the PMO came to an abrupt end with the exhaustion of funds. No concrete efforts were taken to find other sources of funding for the programme.
There was no sustainability in the Development programme.
2. The Coaching Committee seems to have gone into "hibernation". They lack the enthusiasm to upgrade standards of coaching among the locals and have not taken advantage of sending them to FIH courses.
3. MHC Competition Committee has lost the shine to organise scintillating tournaments for the National League and Tun Razak. It's being done because it was done in the past. It's not marketed to draw the crowd to support the game. The shine of these tournaments is completely jaded. Hockey support at the "terraces" is of the past.
Similarly, most of the other Committees seem to face the same fate. The full time employed staff seems to give some resemblance that some forms of activities are going on in MHC.
It would be very difficult to accuse the Office Bearers that they are not doing their job. However, what is symptomatic is the lack of passionate commitment to the overall management of hockey in the country. Things do not seem to represent a vibrant purposeful mood, as comments made were taken to be negative and commentators were threatened with legal actions. Sponsors and media were whispered to, not to bring certain people on board. Such "backbiting" is a common feature and the focus for proper management has been compromised. Equally, there is a great concern for an unnecessary protocol that bears unwarranted hassle to organising events.
The list can continue but it serves no purpose in "flogging a dead horse". The Affiliates have to recognize that the administration of Malaysian Hockey needs the "Right Person with the Right qualification to undertake the Right job". There are a number of good personalities who can transform Malaysian hockey. However, the Affiliates need to give such people the room to bring a working team to get a proper roadmap to glorify Malaysian hockey. If pettiness and self-glorification exercise prevails among Affiliates then the Affiliates must realise they are placing the last few nails in the coffin for the demise of Malaysian hockey.
The Affiliates must give a chance for fresh blood to rejuvenate Malaysian hockey. The upcoming elections give the opportunity and they "must not miss the boat".
V M Chandran
Nov.2019
Acknowledgment.
Some aspects of this article have been extracted from Maninderjit Singh's article " Failure is not an option".
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