Even footballers need safe, healthy spaces
When former Kedah player Azmeer Yusof revealed on social media that he had been “victimised” by his seniors when he was a young professional footballer, some people scratched their heads wondering who he was.
However, those who knew him felt sorry, and were extremely supportive.
There were others, former stars of the domestic league, who felt otherwise. Safee Sali, a former international and president of the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM), dismissed Azmeer’s allegation as something intended to instil a sense of respect towards the senior players. It was the most preposterous argument I’ve ever heard.
Another former international Zaquan Adha invited Azmeer to meet up personally, saying there were other footballers who would also like to hear Azmeer out. However, Zaquan refrained from naming any footballer in particular.
Zaquan went on to say that whatever Azmeer had revealed was “personal” and did not require the involvement of anyone else. He then reminded Azmeer of an incident involving Azmeer’s ex-wife, and that Azmeer had allegedly “fought” with other players.
There are certainly no quick fixes to bullying, but the battle to mitigate toxic workplace behaviour must start with us encouraging our young footballers to have their voices heard, especially during their “crucial” early years as professionals. Having a conducive environment that helps nurture a sense of comfort and support builds an enduring career.
In health and safety legislation, workplace bullying is defined as repeated inappropriate behaviour that undermines a person’s right to dignity at work. It can involve isolation, abuse of power, intimidation, aggressive behaviour, or repeated requests to complete impossible tasks.
Bullying can at times be glaringly obvious, but much of the time, bullying is subtle and inconspicuous. At times, those who cry victim are “bullies”, too.
There are two types of bullies: a predatory bully, who does it to feed off fear; and a bully who bullies indirectly for a purpose. The more indirect form of bullying is favoured by a narcissist, where they withhold information, and spread gossip.
The Football Association of Malaysia and PFAM must look into such matters. Disregarding such behaviours will lead to an unhealthy and perilous culture, strengthening the notion of how bullying is becoming a cultural norm. We must stop bullies, and those who play victim and go on to “bully” others.
Anti-bullying policies should not just be a requirement within the code of conduct of our football; they are a good element of attraction, retention, and morale for all stakeholders.
Ultimately, they are good for business.
The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the writer and do not necessarily represent that of Twentytwo13.
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