Recently, KBU SPORT POLL surveyed public opinion on the topic "People's Expectations of the New Government Regarding National Sports Development."
One key issue that respondents want the new government to address, seen as a major challenge and vicious cycle in sports, is the "problem of corruption."
Today, Dr. Ratthapong Boonyanuwat, Director of the Human Capital Development Center at Kasem Bundit University, joins my column in "Thairath Sport" to reflect on this issue.
This concerns the 'black hole' in the sports world, especially corruption, a long-standing and widely recognized problem in Thai sports.
Despite public awareness of the issue over time, no agency has yet managed to break this vicious cycle or eradicate the deep-rooted corruption.
What can be observed, especially regarding the lack of transparency, is that if you talk privately with athletes, most are aware but remain silent.
For survival and safety, the attitude "better to stay silent, better not to get involved" has become a common phenomenon.
Today, we must acknowledge that within our sports sector, there are truly selfless volunteers dedicated to developing sports with genuine sincerity.
Conversely, some individuals present themselves well, with visions to show they and their teams are ready to participate in national sports development.
However, behind the scenes, some well-known figures join to seek fame and exploit benefits for themselves and their circle, effectively "farming on the backs of athletes."
Recently, Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, head of Thai sports at Huamark, revealed that the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is taking serious steps to prevent and suppress corruption in sports.
Regarding the firm commitment to raising standards in anti-corruption efforts in sports, the SAT governor stated in an interview,
that the SAT, together with Mr. Phumwisarn Kasemsuk, Secretary-General of the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC),
Ms. Ornich Sukban, Director of the Anti-Corruption Office Region 2, and Police Colonel Thanapong Thabklam, Chief of Division 6, are
collaborating to find measures to prevent and suppress corruption involving sports associations, event organizers, private sectors involved, and those using budgets from both the SAT and the National Sports Development Fund.
This also includes SAT employees, officials, and related parties to ensure budget use is transparent and maximally benefits the development of sports and Thai national athletes.
The SAT will closely supervise, monitor, and audit the budgets of various sports associations and those using funds from both the SAT and the National Sports Development Fund.
This effort is coupled with cooperation with anti-corruption agencies to build trust among athletes, sports personnel, and the public.
They want to assure that the government-supported budgets are used effectively, efficiently, and fairly for the development of Thai athletes.
If the SAT and its partners can effectively implement and firmly address this undesirable cycle with continuous oversight,
especially by exposing those involved publicly and ensuring they face penalties, it would be a tremendous contribution to Thai sports.
Importantly, society will praise and recognize that the SAT under the current leadership is genuine and effective.
It can break down the barriers and tackle the challenges
that society has long wanted to see resolved, to great acclaim!
- Bee Bangpakong -