Malaysia Volleyball Association Condemns Body-Shaming Remarks Targeting Youth Athletes
The issue began after the association posted images of Malaysia's youth team following their match with China.
Cover image via Malaysia Volleyball Association (Facebook)The Malaysia Volleyball Association (MAVA) has condemned recent media coverage and public commentary targeting national youth beach volleyball athletes who competed at the AVC Beach Volleyball Tour Pingtan Open in China
In a statement on Wednesday, 14 May, MAVA criticised three media outlets for their coverage, which focused on the athletes' body sizes.
The association labelled the coverage "unbalanced and sensational", stating that it triggered a wave of negative comments and body-shaming on social media, particularly directed at young female athletes.
"This is deeply regrettable and, in our view, a breach of journalistic responsibility and ethics," the association said, highlighting that such behaviour is especially harmful when directed at minors.
While MAVA acknowledged the public's passion for sports, it expressed disappointment over the tone and nature of online comments. The organisation emphasised that comparisons, ridicule, and body-focused criticism are disrespectful and ignore the athletes' dedication and sacrifice.
MAVA reaffirmed the achievements of its youth athletes, who have qualified for the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships for three consecutive years since 2022, including the Under 19 and Under 21 events held in Türkiye, Thailand, and China.
The statement noted that these milestones are the result of consistent effort, merit, and long-term development.
"We welcome constructive feedback and dialogue aimed at strengthening Malaysian volleyball, and the focus must remain on sport, not appearance," MAVA stated, urging the public to be more respectful, especially when engaging with youth athletes who represent the hopes of the nation's sporting future.
The controversy emerged after MAVA posted 11 photos of Malaysia's women's youth team competing against China, including a group photo taken after the match
The post went viral, garnering over 2,800 likes and 900 comments.
Some commenters drew attention to the Malaysian players' comparatively smaller physiques next to their Chinese counterparts, with a few suggesting the athletes required better nutrition.
However, many netizens defended the players, praising their dedication and hard work. Several pointed out that physical size does not determine athletic ability, with others highlighting the athletes' accomplishments.
"To those who criticise and [call for] taller athletes, bear in mind that these two were selected to represent Malaysia, which means they are the best talents available to MAVA. If you're tall but weren't selected, what does that mean? It means the skill and stamina of these shorter athletes are far superior to those who are taller," one Facebook user wrote.
Another user added, "Many people are commenting about nutrition issues. Your scientific knowledge is limited. Height is largely determined by genetics (80%). Don't be a keyboard warrior if you don't know the real situation. I've known this player since she was young. She has been involved in volleyball since primary school and, together with her team, has brought home many gold medals for her school, state, and country."
