PETALING JAYA: Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob wants the Malaysian Lawn Bowls Federation (MLBF) to resolve an issue involving the suspension of two national lawn bowlers amicably for the sake of the country.

“After listening to a few versions of the story from different sources, I see the conflict between MLBF and the two suspended bowlers as a small matter that can be resolved.

“Those involved in the conflict must sacrifice for the nation,” he told reporters when asked to comment on the 18-month suspension for Siti Zalina Ahmad and 12-month suspension for Norhashimah Ismail by the MLBF Disciplinary Board on March 12. Siti Zalina was handed the suspension for three alleged offences – fighting with a teammate (Maisarah Aminluddin), attacking an MLBF official and failing to follow instructions from her coach while training at the Bukit Kiara National Lawn Bowls centre, on Oct 26, last year.

Norhashimah was slapped with a one-year ban for allegedly failing to intervene and carry out her duties as national team captain while Maisarah was suspended six months for her part in the incident.

Ismail Sabri said the initial effect of the suspension was already felt when Siti Zalina, a two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist ranked third in the world, could not compete in the World Cup held in Australia last week.

“Maybe if she had competed, Siti Zalina could have reclaimed top spot,” he said.

“As such, I hope MLBF would resolve the issue quickly so that Siti Zalina and Norhashimah can represent the country again or else I may have to ask the Sports Commissioner’s office to intervene,” he said.

However, MLBF may have their own views on the matter as Siti Zalina and Norhashimah decided to submit a protest letter to the MLBF Board on March 23, instead of appealing against their suspension.

— Bernama