It is extremely disappointing to read that Singapore will not get live coverage of the Olympics, even though the event is the ultimate sporting competition ("No live sporting action from Rio"; last Saturday).

Perhaps it is a reflection of our society, wrapped up in its cocoon of social media and mobile games, that few people seem to care about watching athletics, swimming, gymnastics and so on.

Inevitably, this will lead to children forsaking such sporting endeavours. The effects on health and well-being will be disastrous.

Sixteen other Asian territories struck a deal with the broadcast rights holder. That Singapore is the only one of the 17 not broadcasting the action live suggests one party dropped the ball or, perhaps, passed the buck but with no one assuming responsibility.

Transparency is essential to avoid a repeat of this situation when the next Olympics are held in Tokyo in 2020.

Jairam Amrith