In a WhatsApp message making the rounds in social media, Fellizia also pleaded against politicising Watson’s predicament over medical bills totalling RM80,000, incurred on his late father’s behalf, and settled via a loan from Bank Islam. “Many people were reportedly taking this opportunity to collect money, using Watson’s name, but no one knows where such collections are going.”
“We appreciate any effort made on his behalf but please do not politicise the issue. Also, those concerned must be accountable to the public for monies collected.”
She cautioned against members of the public banking money into “other people’s” bank accounts purportedly for Watson. She urged them to check with her on 012-855 3155. “We have been through many ups and down,” she recalled. “We thank all those who have helped us. We appreciate all these efforts very much.”
She explained that her club holds athletic clinics in schools, colleges and universities. “We hope the Sarawak Government would contribute to the club. We aim to help produce more athletes for the state.”
Watson, dubbed the Flying Dayak by the media in his time, has been quoted as saying that the Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) and NGOs may be able to help him get out of his bankruptcy. “SDNU President and Social Development Minister William Mawan has helped me over the years including recommending me for a sprint coaching contract with the Sarawak Sports Council.”
SDNU is expected to issue a statement soon on its efforts to help get Watson out of bankruptcy.
Watson, born in Miri, Sarawak, on 27 February 1976, according to a Facebook profile on him, specialised in the 100 metres and qualified for the Olympics twice – in 1996 at Atlanta and 2000 at Sydney.
In 1995, he set the national 100m record with a time of 10.38s.
In a memorable rivalry between Watson and Azmi Ibrahim to grab the title of Malaysia’s fastest man at the 1996 Kuantan Malaysia Games, Watson finished first in 10.33s, beating Azmi to 2nd place. He has won many medals and accolades, including a silver medal at the Asian Track and Field. He broke the national record on three occasions.
He retired from athletics in 2002 but made a comeback in 2003, when he won a silver medal in the 100m national championships, but soon went into retirement again.