Volleyball coach in slapping incident can be convicted, criminologists say
SHAH ALAM - The aggressive action of a volleyball coach allegedly slapping two players which went viral recently can result in a criminal case if a police report is made.
Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) Criminologist Dr Zalmizy Hussin said if he was found guilty, a maximum prison sentence of one year and/or fine of RM2,000 could be imposed.
He said the offence would be under Section 322 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing grievous hurt.
"If there is a report, the police would conduct an investigation and depend on the results, the perpetrator would be accused of a criminal offence.
“This meant the perpetrator would have actions taken under the law.
"Whether the police accuse the perpetrator or not, the police report made could be used towards the next measure which is a court claim.
"We need to be aware that just by raising our hands and threatening to slap an individual, it could become an offence and actions could be taken for some cases," he told Sinar.
On Sunday, a viral video showed a coach of a volleyball team allegedly slapped two of his players in a tournament on Dec 16.
Zalmizy said an independent investigative body should be established to look into the incident fairly.
Independent criminologist Shahul Hamid Abd Rahim said strict action must be taken since the coach had no right or authority to do such a thing.
"The law does not allow a coach or any individual to slap or hit players. There is no provision or sports body to authorise it.
"I am also a coach for volleyball and hockey. I have never been given the power to hurt players physically. I can scold them.
“Scolding is a norm for coaches towards players to educate them, not hitting them, that is a crime," he explained.
He said if the victims did not lodge a police report, actions could still be taken if the authorities were aware that the incident took place.
"However, usually there would be a need for a report to be lodged for them to investigate who are the victims and perpetrators.
“Unless, the incident happens in front of the police, they could immediately take action," he said.
