A Malaysian martial arts coach has been accused of attacking a Filipino referee during the SEA Games in Thailand, following protests over a controversial match decision, according to the Philippine Olympic Committee.
The incident occurred on Monday after the women’s pencak silat event ended in a tie. Competition officials awarded the victory to Thailand’s Chongthima Rueanthong, 22, under tie-break rules, citing that Malaysia’s Nor Farah Mazlan, 27, committed more errors, local media reported.
The Malaysian team contested the result, reportedly chasing and shouting at event staff in frustration.
“A Filipino pencak silat referee at the 2025 SEA Games was attacked by a Malaysian coach, but is now safe,” said Philippine Olympic Committee President Bambol Tolentino. He added that an official protest has been filed with the SEA Games organizing committee.
A SEA Games staff member in Bangkok, speaking anonymously, said no further comment would be made until a “technical investigation is completed.”
Princess Kiram, President of the Philippine Pencak Silat Association, stressed in a Facebook post that “competition remains in the arena. Ego and frustration should never be expressed through violence against officials, staff, or athletes. Remember, we represent our national flag.”
The biennial SEA Games conclude this Saturday, featuring thousands of athletes competing in events such as football, fencing, skateboarding, sailing, and combat sports. This year’s organizers have faced criticism after pre-opening mishaps, including a delayed ceremony, errors in national anthems, and incorrect flag displays.
Thailand currently leads the overall medal tally, followed by Indonesia and Vietnam.
