Heated Clash Ends in Violence
Head coach of Malaysia’s Parkcity Heat has been suspended after hitting referee Mandy Ngeing in the face with a tactical clipboard, The incident took place on 24 October during a Malaysia Basketball League (MBL) Development League match. The game, held at Maba Stadium, ended with the Southern Tigers beating Parkcity Heat 83-59.
Goh Cheng Huat attacked the referee near the final minutes of the fourth quarter. Eyewitnesses said chaos broke out immediately after the strike.
The former national coach continued shouting at Ngieng even after the contact, leaving players and officials scrambling to calm the situation. The incident stunned viewers and fans in the stands.
League Acts Quickly
MBL moved fast. In an official statement, the league confirmed Ngieng sustained facial injuries and that Goh had been suspended pending an investigation. Reports and statements are being collected from match commissioners and technical staff. Once complete, the case will be forwarded to the Malaysian Basketball Association (MABA) disciplinary committee for review.
“In order to maintain discipline on the court and ensure the safety of all match officials, Cheng Huat has been suspended pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation,” MBL said.
The league stressed it takes actions that threaten the integrity of the game seriously and remains committed to transparency, fairness, and protecting referees, players, and officials.
Social Media Outrage
Social media erupted within hours. Video clips of the incident circulated widely, drawing sharp criticism from basketball fans and netizens alike. One viral post read:
“Shame on You Mister Goh Cheng Huat ✔️‼️ You have no business being on a basketball court anymore.”
Another post highlighted the human cost:
“How would you feel if a girl’s face was scarred? If it were one of your daughters, would you want her treated this way?”
Anger was palpable. Many called for accountability and stronger penalties.
Ngieng, who is also a chiropractor, received an outpouring of support from the basketball community.
Safety and Discipline Under Scrutiny
Goh’s suspension sheds light on discipline and safety in the sport. The league is under pressure to act decisively, and basketball enthusiasts are closely watching how the investigation unfolds.
MBL has promised regular updates and complete transparency. Fans and players hope this incident becomes a turning point, sending a clear message that reckless or violent behaviour will not be tolerated.
Lessons for the Basketball Community
For Ngieng, recovery is now the priority. And the lesson is clear: authority on the court cannot be challenged with violence, no matter the heat of the game.
The incident has ignited wider conversations about professionalism, accountability, and the responsibilities of coaches in high-pressure sports environments.
Watch the video here:
@trpmsia Major Basketball League Malaysia moved quickly to address the situation, issuing official statements expressing “deep regret” and extending “sincere condolences” to the referee. 🎥: Coco Line via Facebook
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