Kuala lumpur: The Disciplinary Committee of the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) has determined that there are sufficient grounds to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the Thailand team following an incident during the team event final of the ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup 2026 in May.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, ISTAF Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Kader stated that the proceedings involve five players from Thailand's third regu who allegedly refused to continue the match against Malaysia. Additionally, two coaches and one team manager are implicated for allegedly instructing, supporting, or failing to prevent the action.

The decision was reached during an online meeting after the committee reviewed official reports from match officials, a complaint lodged by the Sepak Takraw Association of Malaysia (PSM), video recordings, and representations submitted by the Thailand Sepak Takraw Association (TAT). The Disciplinary Committee emphasized the importance of addressing the matter firmly to maintain the integrity and discipline of sepak takraw on the international stage, particularly in upcoming events such as the Nagoya 2026 Asian Games and the Doha 2030 Asian Games.

Formal charge letters are to be issued no later than today, with all eight individuals involved given 14 days to submit written responses to the charges. Following that period, the committee will proceed with hearings and make its decision based on the evidence and submissions in accordance with the ISTAF Constitution and Regulations.

Meanwhile, the Disciplinary Committee issued a stern warning to seven additional Thailand players from the first and second regus who were present during the incident and engaged in actions deemed provocative. These players must sign a commitment to respect match officials' decisions, comply with ISTAF regulations, and uphold sportsmanship in future international tournaments.

The Thailand Sepak Takraw Association (TAT) is also requested to issue a public apology to the international sepak takraw community and spectators for the incident, which marred the team event final of the ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup 2026 on May 23. The controversy arose after Thailand withdrew in protest against a referee's decision, leading to Malaysia being declared the winner by a 2-1 margin.