ASTAF and ISTAF issued a statement supporting the Singaporean referee after Thailand's national team refused to continue playing due to a visibly controversial decision, resulting in them missing out on the men's team world championship title.
On 25 May 2026, the Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF) and the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) jointly released a statement expressing full confidence and support for Muhammad Radhie, a senior international referee from Singapore, following widespread criticism and negative comments on social media after the ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup Kuala Lumpur 2026 final.
The two-time defending champions Thailand faced the host Malaysia, tied at 1-1 in teams. In the third team match, with Thailand leading 14-13, Muhammad Radhie awarded a point to Malaysia on a play where Thailand struck the ball but was judged to have stepped on the line, tying the score at 14-14.
Thailand then protested and declared they would not continue unless the decision was overturned. Ultimately, the referee and organizers did not change the call, resulting in Thailand forfeiting the match by walkout, and Malaysia claimed the championship.
ASTAF and ISTAF stated that Mr. Radhie is widely recognized in the international sepaktakraw community as one of the most experienced, disciplined, and professional referees in the history of the sport.
"With over five decades of international officiating experience, Mr. Radhie has played a crucial role in elevating the standards, credibility, and integrity of refereeing both in Asia and worldwide."
"Throughout his long career, Mr. Radhie has officiated many top-tier events, including the Sepaktakraw World Championship, the Asian Games, the SEA Games, as well as numerous significant ISTAF and ASTAF tournaments."
ASTAF and ISTAF firmly reiterated that "referees must be respected and protected from unfair personal attacks, especially when they perform their duties in accordance with the official rules and regulations of the competition."
The two federations emphasized that "difficult decisions are an inherent part of high-level competition and must be viewed with professionalism and impartiality."
ASTAF and ISTAF also warned all teams, officials, supporters, and the general public that upholding the spirit of fairness, mutual respect, and professionalism is vital for the growth and reputation of sepaktakraw internationally.
They stated, "Constructive feedback is welcomed within the spirit of sportsmanship, but personal attacks and emotional accusations against experienced competition officials should be strictly avoided."