The International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) and the Takraw Association of Thailand (TAT) have broken their silence, releasing a joint statement to address the controversial walkout incident that marred the recent 2026 ISTAF Sepak Takraw World Cup team regu final.

The high-stakes final at the Titiwangsa Stadium concluded abruptly when Malaysia was awarded a 2-1 victory after the Thai squad abandoned the court, vehemently disputing an umpire’s decision during the deciding third regu.

The dramatic walkout sparked intense media scrutiny and widespread debate across the global sepak takraw community.

Constitutional Procedures Take Precedent

In their joint briefing, both governing bodies acknowledged the massive wave of public opinion and media commentary surrounding the match.

However, they firmly asserted that the matter will not be settled in the court of public opinion, but will instead be handled strictly under the framework of the ISTAF Constitution, the Laws of the Game, Competition Regulations, and established Disciplinary Procedures.

TAT President Thana Chaiprasit publicly reaffirmed his association’s full respect for ISTAF’s authority as the sport’s global governing body. Expressing complete faith in the federation’s professionalism, Chaiprasit stated:

“TAT is confident that all relevant facts, reports, evidence and representations will be considered in accordance with the principles of natural justice before any determination is made.”

Chaiprasit further emphasized his trust that the final evaluation will remain completely objective and entirely free from any outside political influence or pressure.

Pushing for Total Transparency

On behalf of the international federation, ISTAF Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Bin Kader reiterated their unyielding commitment to maintaining an entirely independent review process.

He stressed that the primary objective remains protecting the absolute integrity of the sport while ensuring that every involved party is given a fair and unbiased opportunity to be heard.

To fast-track transparency and instill confidence in the investigation, Abdul Halim officially tabled the incident, along with all supporting evidence and facts, before the ISTAF Executive Committee during its scheduled meeting on May 30, 2026.

A Call to Stop the Speculation

With the investigation now formally underway, both ISTAF and TAT have issued a stern, unified plea to all athletes, team officials, passionate supporters, and media outlets to completely refrain from spreading groundless speculation, making assumptions, or jumping to premature conclusions.

Both organizations concluded by reaffirming their shared commitment to the long-term growth, unity, and professional development of international sepak takraw, eagerly anticipating a fair institutional resolution for the ultimate benefit of the sport.