Bangkok: "Mew" Pornpawee Chochuwong has reversed her decision to withdraw from the SEA Games badminton competition, following management issues with the Badminton Association of Thailand and a reduction in her allowance.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Lt. Col. Thammanat Prompao, who also serves as Chairman of the Sports Authority of Thailand, announced the change after discussions with Mr. Kongsak Yodmanee, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, and Ms. Pornpawee. The decision came after Ms. Pornpawee initially withdrew from the 33rd SEA Games, due to be hosted in Thailand later this year.
Lt. Col. Thammanat revealed that a special committee has been set up to investigate issues across all sports associations, not just badminton. The committee aims to operate transparently and resolve the problems faced by athletes and associations. Ms. Pornpawee and her coach will now continue to represent Thailand in the upcoming SEA Games.
The investigation will focus on club and association management, which Lt. Col. Thammanat identified as a core issue affecting athletes. The committee will also address budgetary concerns, ensuring fair allocation across sports associations.
Ms. Pornpawee expressed her willingness to compete for the nation, emphasizing her and her teammates' dedication to representing Thailand. She urged Lt. Col. Thammanat to assist in solving management issues to foster the development of a new generation of athletes.
Mr. Kongsak Yodmanee, Governor of the Sports Authority, highlighted the urgency of resolving these issues. He stated that cooperation from the associations is vital for a quick resolution and that Ms. Pornpawee will continue to serve as a national athlete at the SEA Games.
Mr. Kongsak also mentioned that addressing complaints from various associations and athletes is crucial. Lt. Col. Thammanat aims to use Mew's situation as a case study to improve transparency and address potential irregularities in association management.
Finally, Mr. Kongsak noted that issues similar to the badminton case, such as those involving previously withdrawn shooting athletes, will also be investigated with an emphasis on transparency and setting a precedent for future cases.