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Published on March 17, 2008

The decision came following Ismail's testimony to an ISTAF subcommittee in March investigating the case that arose after Ismail withdrew his team from the Sea Games in Thailand in protest over the use of a new ball.

There were also allegations that he was trying to defame the Asian sepak takraw federation and persuade other countries not to join the SEA Games in Bangkok. If proven guilty, he could have faced a permanent ban from the sport and a fine for misconduct.

However, the ISTAF on Friday sorted out the issue amiably after Ismail admitted that he had the wrong information.

Ismail will be able to continue to preside over the Malaysian team and he will be able to bring his team to join the King's Cup World Championships later this year in Thailand.

Now that the dispute is resolved, countries in the region should strive to promote the home-grown sport. Sepak takraw, or kick volleyball, is a sport native to Southeast Asia, similar to volleyball, except that it uses a rattan ball.

Widely popular throughout Southeast Asia, the sport is also gaining wider popularity outside the region due to the excitement of the game and the beautiful teamwork of the players. The modification of equipment is a natural process in the development of any sport for the sake of the players' bodies and health.

Thailand and Malaysia, among other countries in the region, have always viewed sepak takraw as a game of friendship and brotherhood.

Now that every part has shown sportsmanship, it's time to look ahead to realise the local ambition of bringing greater international recognition to the sport by one day having it become an Olympic event.

The Nation