Silambam: DAP man sees red over Shanmugam’s absence, Selangor told to review and reconsider

Melaka sports exco and SUKMA supreme council member representative Datuk VP Shanmugam was once again taken to task over the decision by the sports body to drop Indian martial sports- silambam – from being featured in SUKMA 2026 in Selangor.

“In this matter, the only Indian exco that holds the sports portfolio in the state and a member of SUKMA must come forward and give an open explanation. Why was he absent in an important meeting that decided to drop silambam. As the sole voice of the Indians, his absence is a serious careless. The community has the right to get a honest and transparent reply,” said Senator Dr A Lingeshwaran.

The state government of Selangor was also told to review and reconsider its decision.

“I urge the Selangor government to act quickly. As the host of SUKMA 2026, Selangor needs review and reconsider its decision to reinstate silambam into the official list of sports.

“Selangor has the capacity and opportunity to showcase its leadership by ensuring this national sports event mirrors Malaysia’s true multiculturalism.”

On that note he also said that the Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim cannot be blamed for this blunder.

Yesterday, Bukit Gasing rep, R Rajiv of the DAP also demanded Shanmugam to explain his absence.

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