KUALA LUMPUR: Former national basketball coach Goh Cheng Huat has been temporarily suspended by the Malaysia Basketball Association (MABA) after allegedly striking referee Mandy Ngieng with a tactical clipboard during a Major Basketball League (MBL) Under-23 D-League match on Oct 24.
Cheng Huat, who was coaching Parkcity Heat at the time, was accused of hitting Mandy during their clash against Johor Southern Tigers at the MABA Stadium.
In a statement, MABA said its disciplinary committee had conducted an enquiry but would withhold its findings as the incident is now under court proceedings.
“As the case is currently under court proceedings, it is not appropriate for MABA to announce its findings at this stage to avoid influencing the ongoing legal process,” the association said.
MABA added that, with the approval of its executive committee, Cheng Huat’s coaching licence has been suspended with immediate effect.
“During this suspension period, Cheng Huat is prohibited from taking part in any official tournament, coaching role, or basketball-related activity organised or sanctioned by MABA,” it said.
On Oct 31, Cheng Huat was charged at the Kuala Lumpur Magistrate’s Court with voluntarily causing hurt.
He pleaded not guilty and was released on bail.
The case has been set for mention on Dec 9.
MABA said it will review its decision and take any further action once the judicial process concludes and all facts are established.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
