Level Field

Former KL Malay Mail FC footballer Tosa Notaras’ daughter Gia now dons

2025-08-26T09:58:00.004+08:00

Sports

August 26, 2025
7:22 am

Former KL Malay Mail FC footballer Tosa Notaras’ daughter Gia now dons Malaysian colours

“Inever expected my daughter to follow in my footsteps, but I’m absolutely delighted for her.”

Those were the heartfelt words of former Kuala Lumpur Malay Mail FC player Tosa Notaras when asked about his daughter, Gia Athena Notaras, who is representing Malaysia at the Asean Under-16 Girls’ Championship in Indonesia.

Notaras, an Australian of Greek descent, played for KL Malay Mail FC from 1996 until 2001, before settling in Malaysia.

Originally based in the Klang Valley, Notaras and his family moved to Penang seven years ago when he took up a post at The International School of Penang (Uplands).

“We still have a house in Puchong, Selangor, which we visit often,” he said.

“I have two older boys, but didn’t expect it would be my daughter who would follow in my footsteps.

“Gia may not have a traditional local name, but she is a true-blue Malaysian. She was born in Subang Jaya, but now plays for Uplands.”

Notaras, who also played for Floreat Athena in Perth, Australia, said he is amazed by Gia’s dedication and passion for the sport.

“I played the game for fun, but it is beyond fun for her,” said the former defender.

“She has a genuine passion for football that surpassed what I had. She is determined to succeed. I don’t have to motivate her to train. Gia does it all on her own. Besides the school, she also trains with clubs around Penang.”

While over the moon with Gia’s selection for the national team, the former professional is not one to pull any punches.

“She’s more of a defensive midfielder, but played centrally over the past two matches. She’s technically sound, but I think she could improve her pace,” he said.

“She has time on her side, and I hope she achieves all her dreams in football.”

Gia, whose football idol is Argentina’s Lionel Messi, said she is excited to don national colours.

“It feels great and exciting to be with the national team. When I found out I was selected (for the Under-16 tournament), I was happy. Anyone would be happy and proud to represent their country,” Gia, who is determined to make football her career, told Twentytwo13.

“I’ve always wanted to achieve great things in football. I see myself playing the game with the same passion as I am now.

“My idol is Messi. I like how strong and composed he is when he plays. He is also always humble.”

Gia also paid tribute to her father, who was the inspiration for her to play the game. She said she used to have kickabouts with him and her brothers from the time she was six.

“Even today, I still play in the backyard with my dad. My spark and interest in football was influenced by seeing my dad play.”

Meanwhile, Malaysia’s interest in the Under-16 ended yesterday as it failed to be the best runner-up among the three groups. Malaysia defeated Timor Leste 6-1 on Aug 22, but lost 3-1 to Indonesia two days later. The semifinalists are winners of Group A (Indonesia), Group B (Vietnam) and Group C (Australia), and Thailand, who emerged as the best runner-up.

Thailand and Malaysia finished with three points each, but the former’s 7-0 thumping of Singapore, gave it a better goal difference.

Main image: Gia Notaras (No 18), says her father, Tosa inspired her to play football. – FA of Malaysia/Facebook

football

Graig Nunis

Graig Nunis has been in the media line for close to three decades. He can be reached at gnunis@twentytwo13.my or on Twitter @gnunis1892.

2024-09-23T18:33:00.003+08:00

CONDOLENCES, TRIBUTES AND ACCOLADES CAME POURING IN AFTER HEARING THE DEMISE OF TENPIN BOWLING ICON DATUK DR PS NATHAN WHOSE LEGACY WILL BE UNMATCHED. HERE ARE SOME TRIBUTES FROM THE WORLD BOWLING FRATERNITY

Canadian Sid Allen, Malaysian bowling coach for a decade (1990-2000)

When I think of Doc its hard to not him as member of the formidable trio of Doc, Peter Yap & Sidney Tung.

Doc was so unique, I have never met anyone like Doc, he exuded patience, calmness and above all else class.

His integrity was impeccable, a beacon for us all to strive to be. He governed world bowling during its finest years, his passion stood out whenever he was faced with difficult moments.

Doc, as a leader he was a delegator, his biggest flaw was he trusted everyone. I will miss his cheeky smile.

Lydia Rypcinski - International Media Officer from USA

I'm stunned to see this news of the demise of Dr Nathan.

Dr. Nathan was like alpha and omega to Malaysian bowling, his presence and influence were so large.

Many condolences to his family and the Malaysian and Asian bowling communities.

WAWASAN 2020 AND DESTINY FDC STOLE THE SHOW

2024-09-15T19:52:00.018+08:00

4^TH TAN SRI HAMIDIN MOHD AMIN CHALLENGE TROPHY XMAIL FC VETERAN / 2^ND UNDER 16, 9S FOOTBALL TOURNAMENTS

WAWASAN 2020 AND DESTINY FDC SHINE

DEBUTANTS Wawasan 2020 and Destiny Football Development Centre won the 4^th Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin Challenge Trophy Xmail FC Veteran / 2^nd Under 16, 9s Football Tournaments respectively at the Melwood Arena, Sungei Buluh on Saturday.

It was also the first for the new named tournament, as it changed name from the Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin / X Mail FC Veterans 9s football tournament to Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin Challenge Trophy tournament.

The change came about when on Sept 7, Datuk Hamidin, the FA of Malaysia president, was conferred the title of Darjah Panglima Setia Mahkota ((P.S.M) which carries the title of Tan Sri, by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, in conjunction with his official birthday.

This year, the tournament was held at the Melwood Arena in Sungei Buluh, following the inaugural tournament in Kuala Kubu Bharu in 2021, followed by in Taiping and last year in Ipoh.

The Tan Sri Hamidin Challenge trophies donated by the FA of Malaysia president, also saw the introduction of a Under-16 tournament with another Challenge Trophy last year.

Last year saw the participation of a foreign team for the first time in the Veteran’s category - Bacolod United - from the Philippines, but unfortunately they could not come this year.

Organised by the Kuala Lumpur XMail Veterans FC, the tournament saw eight invited teams in each category, compete in the one-day tournament, at the beautiful and scenic Melwood Arena surrounded by hills and forest.

The tournament kicked off with a march past of participating teams with each team carrying the 14 state flags and Malaysian flag to commemorate the Malaysia Day tomorrow (Sept 16) and sang the national anthem and Selangor state anthem to honour the tournament was held in Selangor.

ASP Rajendran Kanhiah from Shah Alam Police, who is the Malaysian Indian Football Association deputy president and president of victorious team Wawasan 2020 club president, was the guest of honour for the opening ceremony.

On Friday night, Tan Sri Hamidin was present for the welcome dinner at Royal Selangor Club Sports Annex at Bukit Kiara.

In his address he had said: “I am glad to see small clubs organise tournaments like this, especially age-group tournaments to unearth our young talent and give them competition exposure.

“As for the veterans, it is good to still see them in the game, which helps them keep fit and healthy, while still active in the game,” said Tan Sri Hamidin.

“As this tournament also incorporates the U16 tournament, the veteran players should serve as example for the youngsters with their discipline in the game, fair play play, besides displaying their vintage skills,” said Tan Hamidin with a cheeky laugh.

Tan Sri Hamidin handing over the Veteran's Challenge trophy to Christopher Raj

The teams who competed on Sunday in the veteran category for players 45 years and above category, were host XMail FC Veterans, Melwood Boys FC, Club Aman, UM Legends, Wawasan 2020, Rain FC, MCFA and Sportwriters Association of Malaysia (SAM)

While in the Under-16 teams the teams who competed were My World Hunters FA Academy (Penang), Black Leopard FA (KL), CIMB YFA (KL), DTFT (Selangor), KR7 FC (Malacca), Destiny FDC (Selangor) ,Wira MAS Ipoh (Perak) and PD U Rangers FC (Port Dickson, NS).

Tan Sri Hamidin officially handing over the u16 Challenge trophy to ex-international V. Kalimutu at the official dinner

The teams were divided into two Groups in each category at the draw on Friday namely for veterans - Group A: UM Legends, XMail FC, Wawasan 2020 an Rain FC and in Group B:Club Aman, Melwood FC, Malaysian Chinese Football Association (MCFA) and Sportwriters Association of Malaysia (SAM).

VETERAN SEMIFINALS - CLUB AMAN AND WAWASAN 2020

SAM

In the Under-16 category in Group A were PD U Rangers, KR&, My World, Destiny FDC and Group B were DTFT CIMB YFA, Wira Emas and Black Leopards.

After the Group preliminary league round in their respective Groups, the top two teams qualified for the Championship semifinals, while the third placed and fourth team played in the Plate semifinals.

In the Veteran final, both the teams - Wawasan 2020 and Rain FC - were from Group A.
In the Group match both teams played to 0-0 draw and in final after the game was tied again at 1-1, it had to be decided by penalty kicks and Wawasan 2020 won 3-2

In the semifinals, it was close encounters as Wawasan 2020 beat Club Aman 1-0 and Rain FC also won by a similar score (1-0) beating Melwood Boys.

In the Plate Final, hosts Xmail beat UM Legends 3-1 and in their earlier meeting in the Group match had defeated UM Legends 4-1.

Individual prizes for the veterans were as follows:

Best Goalkeeper: Mohamed Redzuan (Rain FC)

Top Scorer of the Tournament: K. Nanthakumar - 5 goals (XMail FC KL)

Man-of-the match in the Final: Murugarajoo Muniandy

(Wawasan 2020)

Fair Play Trophy: UM Legends

The top scorer for both the veteran and Under-16 category received a return air-ticket each courtesy of Trans Nusa, besides a trophy.

The man-of-the match (final) received Puma goods besides the trophy.

In the Under-16 category, the final although keenly contested by Destiny FDC and CIMB YFA, it was marred with some rough play which certainly did not angur well for youth level development

The final witnessed by Christopher Raj, representing Tan Sri Hamidin, who is the FAM Exco member and also was the national Under-16 team manager, was certainly not pleased with what he saw, although he was impressed with the talent.

CIMB YFA’s coach Gobi was red carded for entering the field when their goalkeeper was injured and floor without referee’s call and uttered some unpleasanteries to the referee, while Destiny’s Micha Foo was red carded for rough play- it was the tournament’s only red to a player.

Destiny wrested the title with a 2-0 win ( Adam Danish and Zafran Rasfan) and went on to win several individual awards - Top Scorer - Ahmad Zaref Kamabarin (4 goals); Best Goalkeeper (Ashraf Rashid) and Man-of-the match in final (Adam Danish).

Destiny, based in Shah Alam, is a well established club under leadership of founder and managing director Aylwin Henry Skelchy, whose clubs have close ties with German clubs.

Four of their players in the team, had just returned from a playing tour of Germany.

The Fairplay Trophy was awarded to Black Leopard.

The champions for the Veterans category took home RM2,500.00, runners-up RM1,500.00, the third placed RM750.00 and fourth placed RM400.00 and medals.

The champions of both veteran and U16 categories were also given a take-away champion trophy.

For the Losers Pool final, the winner received RM400.00 and the loser RM300.00 and medals.

For the Under 16 category, prize money was offered this year.

The the champion received RM800.00, runners-up RM500.00, the third placed RM300.00 and fourth placed RM200.00 and medals.

For the Losers Pool final, the winner received RM200.00 and the loser RM100.00 and medals.

The inaugural champions of the veteran tournament was Huaren FC, followed by XMail FC and last year Navashini Ipoh.

The inaugural Under-16 champion was Ipoh City Council.

The tournament was made possible with personal contribution of supporters and well wishers of the XMail team and several regular sponsors who are friends of XMail FC.

Among the sponsors include ShekhinahPR who was largely instrumental in the tournament being organised this year , Ampersand Advisory, 100 Plus/ Borneo Springs, Milo, TransNusa, Flash Sukan, HA Megah Technology Sdn Bhd, BNT Recycle Sdn Bhd and KR Travels.

FAM deputy president Datuk Siva Sundaram presenting at souvenir to Kerwin Lim (Nestles)

It was indeed and exciting edition with interesting battles are on card in both categories, as teams have submitted formidable teams.

The veteran category see several ex-state, ex-national juniors and ex-international competing.

Among them include K. Nathankumar, Paidiya Rao, S. Saravanan, Lee Ban Tat, A. Muralitharan, S. Jayaprakash, M. Chandran, Ismail Ibrahim and Asmawi Bakiri to name a few.

The tournament moves every year to a new venue to bring the game to all States including Sabah and Sarawak in the near future.

FOURTH EDITION GETS A NEW NAME - TAN SRI HAMIDIN CHALLENGE TROPHY 9s TOURNEY

2024-09-12T17:20:00.004+08:00

NEW LOOK TAN SRI HAMIDIN CHALLENGE TROPHY 9s TOURNEY

The Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin / X Mail FC Veterans 9s football tournament onto its fourth edition, gets a eleventh hour name change to Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin Challenge Trophy tournament.

This year, the tournament will be held on Sept 14 (Saturday), at the Melwood Arena in Sungei Buluh, following the inaugural tournament in Kuala Kubu Bharu in 2021, followed by in Taiping and last year in Ipoh.

The Tan Sri Hamidin Challenge trophies donated by the FA of Malaysia president, also saw the introduction of a Under-16 tournament with another Challenge Trophy last year.

Last year saw the participation of a foreign team for the first time in the Veteran’s category - Bacolod United - from the Philippines, but unfortunately they could not come this year.

Organised by the Kuala Lumpur XMail Veterans FC, the tournament will see eight invited teams in each category, compete in the one-day tournament, at the beautiful and scenic Melwood Arena surrounded by hills and forest.

The tournament will kick off on Sept 14 (Saturday) at 8am at the Melwood Arena with a march past of participating teams and the singing of the national anthem in conjunction of the Malaysia day on Sept 15.

Tomorrow (Sept 13), the team managers meeting, draw and welcome dinner will be held at the Royal Selangor Club Sports Annex at Bukit Kiara.

The teams competing in the veteran category for players 45 years and above are, host XMail FC Veterans, Melwood Boys FC, Club Aman, UM Legends, Wawasan 2020, Rain FC, MCFA and Sportwriters Association of Malaysia (SAM) and the Under-16 teams are My World Hunters FA Academy (Penang), Black Leopard FA (KL), CIMB YFA (KL), DTFT (Selangor), KR7 FC (Malacca), Destiny FDC (Selangor) ,Wira MAS Ipoh (Perak), PD U Rangers FC (Port Dickson, NS).

The teams will be divided into two Groups in each category at the draw at the team managers meeting and will play a one round robin in their respective Groups, with the top two teams qualifying for the semifinals.

The third placed and fourth team in the Groups will play in the Losers Pool semifinals.

There is prize-money for the Veterans where the champion will receive RM2,500.00, runners-up RM1,500.00, the third placed RM750.00 and fourth placed RM400.00 and medals.

For the Losers Pool final, the winner will receive RM400.00 and the loser RM300.00 and medals.

For the Under 16 category, there will also prize money offered this year.

The the champion will receive RM800.00, runners-up RM500.00, the third placed RM300.00 and fourth placed RM200.00 and medals.

For the Losers Pool final, the winner will receive RM200.00 and the loser RM100.00 and medals.

Besides, the Challenge Trophies, winners will be given take away trophies and medals.

There will be also individual awards for the Best Goalkeeper, Top Scorer of the Tournament, Man-of-the match in the Final and a Fair Play Trophy for a team for both categories.

The top scorer of each category will also receive a return air-ticket courtesy of Trans Nusa.

The inaugural champions of the veteran tournament was Huaren FC, followed by defending XMail FC and last year Navashini Ipoh.

The inaugural Under-16 champion was Ipoh City Council.

Sadly, both teams are not defending their titles.

The tournament was made possible with personal contribution of supporters and well wishers of the XMail team and several regular sponsors who are friends of XMail FC.

Among the sponsors include ShekhinahPR who were largely instrumental in the tournament being organised this year , Ampersand Advisory, 100 Plus/ Borneo Springs, Milo, Trans Nusa, Flash Sukan, HA Megah Technology Sdn Bhd, BNT Recycle Sdn Bhd and KR Travels.

Interesting battles are on card in both categories, as teams have submitted formidable teams.

Both categories are expected to see keen battle for honours.

The veteran category see several ex-state, ex-national juniors and ex-international competing.

Among them include K. Nathankumar, Paidiya Rao, S. Saravanan, Lee Ban Tat, A. Muralitharan, S. Jayaprakash, M. Chandran, G. Muthu and Asmawi Bakiri to name a few.

The tournament moves every year to a new venue to bring the game to all States including Sabah and Sarawak in the near future.

PENALTY KICKS TOURNAMENT BECOMING A CRAZE NOW

2024-09-09T21:28:00.033+08:00

MELWOOD BOYS FC SHOW THE WAY

Melwood Boys FC of Sungei Buluh, organised their inaugural Penalty Kick tournament at their scenic Melwood Arena, on Saturday, and it was an overwhelming success.

The Penalty Kick tournament is the latest craze in the country and not a week goes by without tournament being organised around the country by clubs both social and officially registered clubs.

It is no surprise to find not less than 100 teams competing in each tournament.

XMAIL FC KUALA LUMPUR

Melwood Boys FC established in 2003 is well managed club with Hari Chandran at the helm as president and with his vision with his business partner SP Thanda, they have set up a beautiful two pitch arena with floodlights amongst nature and surrounded by pictureque hills at Sungei Buluh, away from the hustle and bustle of the city which is just 15 minutes away.

They started their dream by renting the plot, cleared the area and built it from scratch.

It is an excellent pitch and together with a dedicated team of officials of the club, the club is certainly setting a great example for other clubs to follow and with a high degree of professionalism.

Ulu Kelang Recreation Club (UKRC) is another private club who fought tooth and nail to save their field from development and later ownership, and now back in their hands, have restored back the field to an excellent condition throughn painstaking efforts and organised their 18^th UKRC International Soccer 9s, where ten teams took part over the weekend.

Indeed clubs like these should applauded for their love and passion for the game and sacrifice and dedication.

At the Melwood Penalty Kick tournament, about 120 teams (including registered teams after their initial loss) competed and it was not an easy feat to manage the tournament.

But organising chairman, A. Chandrasegaran, with his team officials including former Kuala Lumpur team captain, K. Ramachandran, who is now coaching the Melwood FC team, did a great job to manage the tournament to see a smooth end in the evening.

However, there were areas which could have been managed better.

Many teams were complaining about the timings of the schedules.

While the tournament was scheduled to begin at 9am, it only started past 10am because the organisers were doing manual registration, when it could have been done online to save time.

Another concerned raised, was allowing teams who failed to qualify for the next round after the first round of league of four teams in a group, to re-register and compete again, which went on for too long into past noon.

Teams who has qualified for the next round, had to wait close to four hours before they went for their next round of kicks.

Teams who had lost in the first round and wanted a second chance had to pay only RM100.00 as opposed to the entry fee of RM165.00 and while the organisers were trying to reap in as money as possible, it greatly inconvenienced the teams with no proper cut off time.

To compound matters further, teams who arrived past 11am were allowed to register to compete by paying the full entrance fee.

While a majority of the teams who took the trouble to be at the ground before 9am, it was indeed unfair to allow the late comers to compete.

But all said and done, it was still a very well managed tournament with some minor hiccups. It was Melwood FC's first time they were organising, and it can only get better with good leaders and administrators with the club.

It was indeed an interesting tournament with players ranging from school children, teenagers, veterans and ex-internationals and of all races competing in a carnival and friendly atmosphere.

While the tournament rule allowed a maximum of five players to be registered per team, there were many with less than five players in their team and several registered only one player and the one player who was the goalkeeper and kicker.

One such player was Aris Hakimi from Lakum FC who finished fourth.

RESULTS:

Champion: Thiyashini (RM4,000.00, trophy and medals)

Runner-up: YARAA (RM2,000.00, trophy and medals)

Third placed: Bright & Bright (RM1,000.00 and medals)

Fourth placed: Lakum FC (RM500.00 and medals)

SELANGOR REGAINS GLORY IN MCFA CUP

2024-08-12T18:58:00.023+08:00

SELANGOR EDGE NEGRI SEMBILAN IN CLOSE BATTLE

Selangor regained their top team status in the Malaysian Chinese Football Association (MCFA) Cup, when beat Negri Sembilan 4-2 in penalty kicks after regulation 1-1 draw, at the UTAR Mini Stadium in Kampar on Sunday evening.

Selangor going into their firth final had qualified for the last four finals since 2018 (except when no competition was held in 2020 and 2021 because of the Covid pandemic) and had won it thrice - only losing last year to Kedah last year.

Selangor for the record too have appeared in the most number finals in the history of the MCFA Cup - 30 times - and now won it 14 times.

Selangor coach Ng Thean Loo being hoisted by his players and team officials after he steered his team to glory

Penang who holds the record of having the Cup the most number of times - 15 times in their 26 final appearances, had to contend finishing third when they defeated Perak also in penalty kicks 4-3 after regulation time 2-2 draw.

Selangor who started as favourites in the final against Negri Sembilan after having emerged champions in their Southerners Group with an unbeaten record with four wins, although only three states were in the Group, Johor being the other.

Selangor also had defeated Negri Sembilan twice (2-0 and 1-0) in the Group League matches.

But Negri were bent on turning the tables on Selangor with their never say die attitude and determination and even forced the game to be decided by penalty kicks with a last minute equaliser by Chun Keng Hong in the 89th minute after Selangor's Nickolas had score in the 67th minute.

However, for Selangor’s player Nicholas Wee Shen Ming, 32, it was probably a perfect farewell for his involvement in the tournament since he was 15 years ago.

The former Harimau Muda player, a product the Royal Selangor Club, Junior Soccer Development Programme (JSDP) owes it to his father, Hock Kee, who took a keen interest in his development of the game and even his career.

Both father and son have accountancy background.

Nicholas is now the CEO of DBC group of Physiotherapy Centres which was founded by his father 22 years ago.

Nicholas has the proud record of having lifted the MCFA Cup six times.

And Nicholas said it maybe time for him to hang his boots.

Nursing a knee injury but coach Ng Thean Loo wanted him to play. He no longer plays competitive football. His professional football days are over. Career is his main focus now but still plays social football regularly.

“He started playing in MCFA at the age of 15 and this annual tournament is close to his heart,” said senior Wee Hock Kee.

“Yes at 32 he still has the drive and energy to play. Coach had switched him from center back to defensive midfielder.

“Chinese families emphasise a lot on education. But you can achieve both as Nicholas has proven,” said Wee who was in Kampar to support his son.

Nicolas himself just wanted to savour the moment and said whether he plays in the 72^nd edition of the MCFA Cup, he will let time and his condition be the judge.

“I just want to enjoy this moment, This is very special to me,” said Nicholas.

Indeed a proud moment for father and son.

The tournament itself was very well organised under the leadership of newly elected president Datuk Jeffery Low and his team of Edwin tan Chee Hong (Hon Secretary), Melvin Tan Ching Yang (Competition Chairman), Ridzuan Sim Abdullah (Corporate Marketing of MCFA Football Development) and their team.

A big thank you to local resident Hew Fen Yee who was a major sponsor of the tournament and University of Tuanku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) in Kampar who gave their full support for the excellent venue and medical assistance.

Fairplay trophy to Negeri Sembilan

The tournament used the two (2) league system, Carnival ( Northern & Southern ) starting on June 21.

After the League rounds, Penang emerged champions of the Northern Zone, while Perak emerged runners-up to qualify the semifinals, with Selangor emerging champions and Negri Sembilan runners-up, in the Southern zone, to reach the semifinals too.

The tournament rules requires a minimum of three Under-21 players to be in 1st XI for the full duration of the match and teams are allowed to field players of other ethnic groups, besides Chinese players.

The prize money for the champion was RM 7,000.00, runner-up RM4,000.00, 3rd & 4th RM2,000.00 each.

The following awards were given Fairplay team (Negri Sembilan);

Top Scorer (Mak Weng Keng - Perak -9 goals);

Best Goalkeeper (Lim Wei Peng - Negri Sembilan)

and Man of the match (Final) - Low Chun Keong (Selangor).

Indeed, there was an abundance of talent, but sadly no talent scout from the FA of Malaysia were present to spot, where there is a complain that these days it is hard to find footballers from other ethnic group.

But Kudos to MCFA for doing their part to promote and develop the game from grassroots among their ethnic group.

MCFA is no longer a racial tournament as it is open to all races and it was a delight to see a truly Malaysian tournament and emphasising that there must be 3 Under-21 players in the starting XI for the full duration of the game.

HEARING AND SPEECH DEFICIENCY FAILS TO STOP CHEE WENG TO SHINE

2024-08-10T13:32:00.006+08:00

CHEE WENG ON A ROLL

IF there was one player who was most devastated in the Perak team after the missed out to qualify for the Malaysian Chinese Football Association (MCFA) Cup final, when they went down by a solitary goal in the semifinals on Friday evening, it must be striker Mak Chee Weng.

Chee Weng against Selangor on Friday

Chee Weng is ‘special’ in the team because he is deaf and mute and that has not stopped him from being anything than his ‘regular’ teammates.

The 1.69m tall Ipoh born is currently the top scorer of the tournament with seven goals.

But he could be edged out of winning the top scorers title, while Selangor’s Derrick Chua Jingye on six goals who plays in the final against Negri Sembilan. Derrick scored a goal in his team’s 4-1 victory over Penang in the semifinals.

“I am very sad that I could not assist my team reach the final,” devasted Chee Weng through WhatsApp communication after the game, with his assistance of his coach A. Pugelenthi.

“I had many opportunities to score against Selangor, but did not have The luck on my side to score.

The whole team tried very hard to get the equaliser and force the game into penalty shoot-out at least, but it was not to be.

“But I have not lost confidence and pledged to give my utmost best in the third placing match against Penang to at least get the third spot.

“However playing in then final would have been an icing to my five years playing for Perak in the MCFA Cup because after having failed to get past the Group stages, this is the first year we had qualified for the semifinals.

“But I strongly believe that, we will return next year stronger and better prepared to reach the final and go on to win the title after 23 years.”

On him emerging the top scorer of the tournament, Chee Weng who turns 25 on September 22, said it was the last thing on his mind after missing the final.

“If it happens it is a blessing in disguise. At this moment, I just want to give my best to assist Perak win the third placing match, It does not matter if I score or win the top scorer’s title.”

Coach Pugelenti said that Chee Weng was a hardworking and diligent player.

“His handicap makes my job challenging but I manage to get my coaching methods and messages across to him through some sign language and the using of typing my instructions through WhatsApp.

Indeed, the MCFA Cup has proven that it a tournament not only for all ethnic groups, but players from all walks of life.

Chee Weng stands tall in sports for Perak having represented the national team at the Taoyuan Asia Pacific Deaf Football Games in 2015, inaugural Asean Deaf Football Championship in Kuala Lumpur in 2016, represented Perak at Futsal at the 2018 SUKMA, donned national colours at the Asia Pacific Deaf championship in Thailand in 2019, Asia Pacific Deaflympics Football qualifying round in 2021, All Star Football Charity match in 2021 in Kuala Lumpur, 4^th Asia Pacific Futsal Championship in Tehran 2023, and 4^th World Deaf Football Championship last year in Kuala Lumpur.

All eyes will indeed be on Chee Weng tomorrow, although he will only be playing in a third placing match.

SOUTHERNERS RULE IN MCFA CUP SEMIFINALS CLASH

2024-08-10T07:49:00.005+08:00

SELANGOR V NEGRI SEMBILAN FINAL

Northern teams champions Penang and runners-up Perak, were shown the exit in the semifinals clash of the 71^st edition of the Malaysian Chinese Football Association (MCFA) Cup on Friday in Kampar, where Southerners, Negri Sembilan, runners up in their zone and champions, Selangor defeated their opponents respectively.

Perak’s hope of making the final and try to win the MCFA Cup they last won 22 years ago in 2002, when they defeated Penang by a solitary goal, was dashed by Selangor’s solitary 56^th minute goal by Mohamad Syafiq Khor Mohd Kamal Khor.

The Selangor players getting some tips from their coaching staff in the semifinal match against Perak

Selangor who have qualified for the last four finals since 2018 (except when no competition was held in 2020 and 2021 because of the Covid pandemic) and won it thrice - only losing last year to Kedah, is now in line to regain their glory when they play Negri Sembilan tomorrow evening (Sunday) at the University TAR in Kampar.

Negri Sembilan team

Selangor for the record too have appeared in the most number finals in the history of the MCFA Cup - 29 times - and won it 13 times, but Penang holds the record of having the Cup the most number of times - 15 times in their 26 final appearances.

Selangor will certainly start at favourites in the final, having emerged champions in their Southerners Group with an unbeaten record with four wins, although only three states were in the Group, Johor being the other.

Besides, Selangor had also defeated Negri Sembilan twice (2-0 and 1-0) in the Group League matches. It was a close battle and another one can be expected tomorrow but will Negri Sembilan be able to turn the tables on Selangor this time around, is the question on everyone’s lips.

Repeat Final... Selangor and Negri Sembilan in their Southern Group League match

In the Northern Group, were four States - Penang, Perak, Kedah and Kuala Lumpur, where Penang won four matches, drew one and lost one, while Perak as runners up, won four and lost two.

But Selangor certainly cannot take Negri Sembilan lightly or for granted despite their earlier wins, after the latter’s convincing 4-1 win over Penang.

Penang led with an early 7th minute goal by Eng Tian Hom, but Negri Sembilan equalised in the 21^st minute through Derrick Chua, their leading scorer to bring his tally to six, for halftime score.

Then, Negri Sembilan went on an all-out assault in the second half to score through Dermon Yong Chiang Min (57^th minute,) Keenan Goh Qing Wei (73^rd) and Adam How Eng Hua (83^rd) to seal the game.

Perak will now play for the third placing spot at 2.30pm tomorrow, while the final at 4.15pm, is going to be an exciting show down.

Negri Sembilan has only won the trophy four times in their 13 final appearances.

Can Negri Sembilan wrest the Cup against the well oiled Selangor, they last won 13 years ago, when they defeated Penang by a solitary goal?

Indeed a question which will be eagerly waited tomorrow evening.

The MCFA Cup is among one of the the oldest tournaments in the nation (inaugurated in 1948) which is hosting it’s 71^st edition this year.

The tournament used the two (2) league system, Carnival ( Northern & Southern ) started on June 21 culminating with the final tomorrow.

Players still registered/participating in the M-League 2024 (AFL – M3 [A1], Super League U23, President Cup and Belia Cup 2024 are not be allowed to play in this competition but with Official Letter from the Club/State they are allowed to play in this tournament.

The prize money for champion is RM 7,000.00, runner-up RM4,000.00, 3rd & 4th RM2,000.00 each.

The defending champion is Kedah who had defeated Selangor in the final last year, but failed to qualify for the semifinal this year.

There will also be special awards for the following:

Fairplay team
Top Scorer
Best Goalkeeper
Man of the match (Final)

MCFA in collaboration with FA of Malaysia organsed a football seminar this morning (Saturday) at Grand Kampar Hotel.

MCFA president, Datuk Jefrey Low said: “In this tournament we witnessed the power of unity, as players from different backgrounds, cultures and states come together with a shared passion, ready to showcase their extraordinary abilities.

“Since the tournament began in June, we have witnessed unforgettable moments, breath taking goals, and display of sheer brilliance that has etched memories.

“I strongly believe the final will see a fitting display by both teams to showcase a high level performance fitting for a grand finale.”

MCFA CUP MOVES TO FINAL STAGES IN KAMPAR

2024-08-08T09:58:00.000+08:00

MCFA CUP ACTION IN KAMPAR

THE Malaysian Chinese Football Association (MCFA) proudly host their 71^st edition - one of the oldest tournaments in the nation (inaugural in 1948) - this weekend (Aug 9 -11) in Kampar, Perak.

The tournament using the two (2) league system, Carnival ( Northern & Southern ) started on June 21.

Penang will take on Negri Sembilan in the first semifinals, while Selangor will play Perak in the second semifinals.

71st MCFA CUP 2024 (NORTHERN ZONE) by Deputy President FAM Dato S. Sivasundaram, MCFA Hon. Secretary Edwin Tang and MCFA Director of Corporate Marketing & Football Development MCFA, Ridzuan Sim Abdullah.

The prize money for champion is RM 7,000.00, runner-up RM4,000.00, 3rd & 4th RM2,000.00 each.

71st MCFA Cup ( 2nd League Northern zone) Kedah vs Penang

The defending champion is Kedah who had defeated Selangor in the finals last year, but failed to qualify for the semifinal this year.

Penang holds the record of winning the tournament the most number of times -15 - and last won it in 2013. Selangor has won it 13 times and last won it in 2022.

Perak has won the championship 9 times, after Singapore (10 times). Negri has only won it four times.

1st League 71st MCFA CUP 2024 ( Southern zone ) Selangor vs Negeri Sembilan

There will also be special awards for the following:

Fairplay team
Top Scorer
Best Goalkeeper
Man of the match (Final)

MCFA in collaboration with FA of Malaysia are organsing a football seminar on Saturday (Aug 10) at Grand Kampar Hotel, where it is compulsory for all state secretaries, team managers and coaches to attend the seminar.

71st MCFA Cup opening ceremony ( Southern zone) by Dato Ng Chong Boon, Deputy President MCFA. Competition Chairman Melvin Tan

MCFA president, Datuk Jefrey Low said: “In this tournament we witness the power of unity, as players from different backgrounds, cultures and states come together with a shared passion, ready to showcase their extraordinary abilities.

“Here, the game transcends language, race, and borders, uniting us in common language understood by all a language of rentless effort, camaraderie and determination.

“Since the tournament began in June, we have witnessed unforgettable moments, breath taking goals, and display of sheer brilliance that has etched memories.

“I strongly believe as the tournament moves to its final stages, we are going to witness even more exciting days in Kampar.”

Venues:

Semi Final 1 & 2 - 09.08.2024
SF1 - Sport Complex UTAR
SF2 - Majlis Perbandaran Kampar(MPK) Field
3rd & 4th Placing, Final - 11.08.2024
Sport Complex UTAR

WHATEVER WILL BE, WILL BE

2024-02-11T18:01:00.004+08:00

LEAVING ON A JET PLANE

FORMER national head coach for hockey A. Arul Selvaraj, Friday night returned to Dublin, Ireland, with mixed feelings and a heavy heart.

He left with thoughts lingering on his mind of an unfinished job and disappointed that the team had failed to qualify for the Paris Olympics on two occasions - the Hangzhou Asian Games last year and the final qualifier in Oman last month. He was also troubled by having to choose between keeping his promise to his family to return home at the end of his contract and whether to apply to stay on as an interim coach or for a new long-term contract.

“I am really not in a state of mind to make any decisions. I have all these mixed feelings I need to address to move forward,” said Arul before his departure on Friday.

The 49-year-old father of three daughters who had settled down in Ireland 15 years ago, took charge of the national team as head coach from Roelant Oltmans, of Holland, in August 2020. He had a two-year contract to end on December 31 last year but this was extended until the qualification (for the Paris Olympics) in Oman.

“But utmost on my mind now is to return to my wife and daughters to spend some quality time with them.

“I have already told my wife not to ask me anything about my future plans. I just want to have a week to relax my mind, spend time with them and just laze around.

“Maybe after that I will discuss with them what my plans are and also get their views before coming to any decision.”

But Arul does not have the luxury of time to make his decision, if he has any intention to continue working in Malaysia because Feb 16 is the deadline for applications to the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) for the post of national hockey coach.

Several applications have already come in and MHC president Datuk Subahan Kamal has clearly indicated that the coaching committee headed by Datuk Manjit Abdullah will be vetting the applications and announcing their final decision to the MHC executive committee for endorsement.

With the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup tournament in Ipoh scheduled for May 4-11 and Nations Cup in Poland (May 31-June 9), it is important that the fresh coaching set-up for the national team is done urgently.

Whether a new coach will have enough time to select his players and mould the team for the two championships is a question the MHC coaching committee will have to give thought to.

Would they want time to finalise the coach, by naming an interim coach? A question only the coaching committee can answer.

Coming back to Arul, he expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to MHC president Datuk Subahan and team manager Datuk Ahmad Najmi Razak (national team chairman) and team manager Datuk Mirnawan Nawawi for their trust in him, their undivided support and a totally free hand in coaching the team.

“Our failure to make the Paris Olympics is the team’s responsibility headed by me, and definitely not MHC’s,” added the former national player who last played for Malaysia at the 1998 Utrecht World Cup.

“The entire management of MHC gave their fullest support.

“I feel sad that we have let them down but it was not for want of not giving our best.

“The players had been at their highest level of discipline, punctuality and dedication on and off the pitch.

“We were a family and gave everything.”

But Arul said he was only disappointed because they did not achieve their target to qualify for the Olympics.

“The team had achieved some creditable results along the way and they should be applauded and acknowledged for their efforts.

“If only the players had taken the chances that were created, like missing sitters and missing penalty strokes, things would have been totally different.”

He also asked: “Which player would want to skip an opportunity to play in the Olympics, more so since the last time we qualified was for the Sydney 2000 Olympics”

The achievements of the team included winning the Azlan Shah Cup (1st time after a 39-year wait), finished 2nd in Asia Cup(the second-place finish in Jakarta saw them qualify for the World Cup in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, India), second in the Asian Champions Trophy, and beating New Zealand and Spain in the World Cup.

And at the 2022 National Sports Awards, Arul was named the male coach of the year, while the Speedy Tigers won men's team of the year award.

“In conclusion, whatever happened in the end, I and the players take full responsibility and MHC cannot be blamed for anything because they wanted the best and gave the best to the national team.”

Arul admitted that he strongly feels that there are still unfinished tasks but declined to elaborate.

“I have spoken to the president and Datuk Najmi, and they know what is on my mind.

“But for now, I would rather leave that aside and enjoy my break with my family and cross the bridge when I need to.”

Bon voyage Arul, until we hear from you again.

MOVING FORWARD TO STAND ON THEIR OWN

2023-12-13T13:10:00.004+08:00

Moving forward to stand on their own

apakhabartv Sport December 10, 2023 5 Minutes

IT is heartwarming news that the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) and Malaysia Basketball Association (MABA) have announced plans to look into business ventures.

This is a new approach and the nation will be rooting for their success.

The two sport bodies naturally need funds to enhance the progress of their respective sports.

MHC SHOP full of stock for sale.

MHC president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal, when announcing the registration of a business entity under the name of Speedy Tigers Sdn Bhd last week, said that to win medals, there must be a consistent flow of money into their kitty.

Consider the cost – they must pay the juniors, seniors, as well as women’s local and foreign coaches. There are other costs still.

Subahan said MHC gets less money from the government. Understandably so. There are a host of other sports that must be funded.

As for sponsorship, there are only so many sponsors that can help them.

For the ongoing 13th Junior World Cup (JWC) at Bukit Jalil, it roughly costs MHC RM3.5 million, with the biggest slice of RM1.6m going to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) as a hosting fee.

There are also expenditures for the current New Zealand Tour (Dec 8-18) to prepare the senior squad for the Olympic Qualifier in January in Oman.

The women’s squad also needs money to prepare for their Olympic Qualifier.

MHC managed to secure sponsors from staunch supporters of hockey, Tenaga Nasional, RM1 million for the JWC, and other sponsorships from SpeedMart 99 RM1.2m and Orang Kampung (OK) RM300,000 worth of cash and sponsorship in kind.

MHC’s idea of registering Speedy Tigers as a business entity is to generate money for the long term as they also have many more tournaments coming up after the JWC.

MHC’s have set up their shop called ‘MHC Shop,’ which sells national jerseys, running and turf shoes on the ground floor of the National Hockey Stadium.

MABA, on the other hand, are looking to become the first financially self-sustainable national sports association (NSA) in Malaysia after signing a land redevelopment deal with Exsim.

The joint venture with Exsim will see Wisma MABA and the adjacent MABA Stadium at Jalan Hang Jebat demolished to make way for the new MABA Suitez @ KL City Centre project.

MABA-Exsim have dubbed the project a hospitality building – essentially a serviced apartment – featuring two blocks of 60-storey towers with approximately 1,200 units, though this remains subject to approval from the relevant authorities.

The project has an estimated gross development value of RM800 million.

MABA president Datuk Seri Lee Tian Hock said that MABA will receive a cash consideration of RM170 million from the deal, which will be reinvested by purchasing units in the new buildings.

Work at the site is expected to begin by the end of next year, subject to approval, and is expected to be completed within five or six years.

Lee said that when ready, MABA will have a very good stream of recurring income (through transient rentals) estimated to generate roughly RM4 to RM6 million each year.

This income will be used to help run MABA’s annual programmes which can cost between RM3 million and RM4 million each year, as well as cover operating expenses of about RM1 million each year.

Lee also said that they cannot keep asking the government for funding and cannot rely on donations all the time.

They have to learn to be independent.

Maba will also receive a 3,000 square feet office in one of the new buildings, with a three-on-three basketball court next to it, to use as their headquarters.

Wisma MABA, a 12-storey building, was developed in 1971 while the MABA Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 1,800 people, was built in 1995.

While it is encouraging to see National Sports Associations (NSAs) moving towards being self-reliant for their funds, they must be warned that funds generated through their efforts are properly accounted for, managed well, and used for their sports-related programmes.

NSAs must be wary of changes in officials during elections who may have different ideas to utilise the available funds and deviate from the original goals.

Let us not forget the misappropriation of funds, as in 2008, when RM3.8 million of the Malaysian Paralympic Council (MPC)’s funds were used for an unapproved, high-risk investment by its president.

This was done through a company called Paralimpik Ventures which the president and his two sons are majority shareholders. The money was channeled to a company in the US, where it became “irrecoverable” and the MPC were unable to contact the US company afterward.

The amount was initially written off the MPC’s accounts to cover the loss, but some committee members decided to run their investigations and concluded that it was a bad debt, meaning that it will remain in their accounts until the money is returned.

We must also be reminded of the Rakan Sukan funding programme which was initiated by the then Sports Minister, Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman.

The Rakan Sukan programme was introduced in 1994 to attract the private sector to invest in sports.

A man shopping at the MHC Shop.

It was a programme to prepare athletes for the 1998 Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games.

While it was a good programme for funding, sadly only a few sports made good use of it and enjoyed good relations with their sponsor even until now.

Hockey and basketball are two associations that have good relations with their sponsors, Tenaga Nasional and Petronas.

Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC), is another association that looks for funds through their own initiative through sponsors like Century Logistics Holdings Bhd and proceeds from concerts.

Former National Sports Council (NSC) director-general Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail, early last year, had voiced out his views that the Rakan Sukan may be reintroduced following recent government budget cuts for sports.

It is reliably learnt, that the Road to Gold programme maybe pursuing on a similar programme like the Rakan Sukan.

But again, whether it will work depends greatly on the NSAs who have to be accountable and transparent in using the funds provided. If the plans do materialise.

Additionally, some associations have been moving forward to create a positive image for their sports by requesting government assistance to provide land areas for their own buildings or exchange for land parcels.

The new FAM building will have five stories and will be located next to the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) headquarters in Putrajaya Football City.

FAM, which has been based at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya since 1980, is expected to transfer all operations and governance to the new headquarters. It should be fully completed by early 2025. It opened in 1991 and was bought from the City Hall at RM2 per square foot.

Now, they plan to relocate.

When the building was constructed, the then vice-president, Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar, proposed the idea of having a permanent tenant – a hotel – that would ensure OCM a steady stream of income.

OCM also serves as an office space for many national sports associations. OCM now hopes to move with the times and relocate to a new state-of-the-art building by the end of 2025.

OCM’s reasoning for reallocation is that as an umbrella body,a new facility is required to serve Malaysian sports better.

Among the areas being considered are Bukit Jalil and Putrajaya because of their proximity to the National Sports Complex.

It is said that the financing for the new building will be done by disposing of the current Wisma OCM building and site. Options such as working out a land swap are being considered.

All is well and good in the name of progress and moving forward, as long as everything is done above board.

TSS SELANGOR, CAME, SAW AND CONQUERED

2023-12-05T06:14:00.007+08:00

TSS SELANGOR THE OVERALL CHAMPIONS WRESTING THE DATO CHU CUP

Tengku Shakrinal Shah / Tengku Sulaiman Shah Selangor (TSS) made a memorable debut in the 17^th Royal Selangor Datuk Chu Ah Nge International Juniors Soccer tournament at RSC Mont Kiara Sports Annex grounds when they wrested the challenge trophy from six-time champions Junior Soccer School League (JSSL).

TSS Selangor were adjudged the overall champion for the Datuk Cup after winning three (U-10, U-14, and U-16) of the five age-group categories in the tournament.

(Competing teams collect points at all age groups, namely the Under-8s, Under-10s, Under-12s, Under-14s, and Under-16s, with the Dato’ Chu Ah Nge Challenge Trophy being presented to the team that has the highest cumulative point score at the end of the tournament.)

TSS also had the honour of bagging the individual honours for the Man of the match in the final for U-10 (Yohgin Nangannathan) U-14 (Dayyan Nazrin and U-16 (Mohd Ammar Hariz Norzait and Tournament Best Player for U-10 (Yang Mulia Tengku Sulaiman) and U-16 (Khalish Fakhry Mohd Raslan).

JSSL entered three finals (U-8, U-10, and U-14) but sadly lost all three, including two finals to TSS Selangor.

For TSS Selangor U-10 team, it was their second victory in as many days, having won the National Football Development Programme (NFDP) Grand final on Saturday.

“We have two sets of U-10 teams, and yesterday one team won the NFDP title, and today the other team won here,” explained team manager Kamaruddin Omar.

“The team that won the NFDP was the Petaling Putra NFDP team, which comprised all of our players from TSS.

“It is a great debut for us, having won three age-groups and the overall title. We came to this tournament with an open mind as we heard JSSL has been dominant in the tournament over the years, and there are many strong teams competing.

“But we are glad that we managed to stand out and triumph." ”

Kamaruddin, who is affectionately called Dino, said he has been the manager of the team since the Academy was formed in 2019 by Tengku Shakirinal Shah (son of Tengku Laksamana Selangor, Tengku Sulaiman Shah).

“Our teams normally compete overseas, and this is a rare occasion we are competing at home. But we are very impressed with the organisation of the Datuk Chu tournament, which is of international standard,” said Kamaruddin.

TSS had just returned from competing in the Gothia Cup in Sweden and Dana Cup in Denmark, where their U-11 and U-12 teams emerged as champions.

“This year alone, we have won 28 titles, and in 16 finals, we had both TSS teams in the final,” said Kamaruddin.

TSS Academy, which utilises the Panasonic grounds in Shah Alam for training, has four coaches who handle approximately 100 children, and it is free of charge.

Indeed, a noble deed, and TSS Selangor is making waves.

The Datuk Chu Cup this year added another feather in their cap as they had the presence of the Crown Prince of Brunei, Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni Hassanal Bolkiah, whose son and nephew were turning out for Brazilian Football Academy Brunei (BFA) Azul and Tengku Laksamana Selangor, Tengku Sulaiman Shah from TSS, and his son Tengku Shakirinal Shah, who was also playing for TSS.

While JSSL had to settle for bridesmaid titles this year, they made a significant impact in the tournament, and their longstanding relationship with RSC has seen them enter into a partnership with RSC.

JSSL has graciously offered free entries to the JSSL Singapore Professional Academy 7s tournament to all champions of the five categories of the 17^th RSC-Dato’ Chu Ah Nge International Junior Soccer Tournament 2023.

The JSSL international tournament will be held from March 28^th to March 31st,2024.

“We look forward to the continued collaboration for the upcoming edition of our tournament,” said Datuk Gerald Rakish Kumar, the organizing chairman.

The other winners, besides TSS were U-8 Euro Soccer Singapore and U-12 Bintang Biru Penang.

A total of 81 teams and 972 children competing in this year’s Datuk Chu tournament this year.

Host Royal Selangor Club had the consolation of winning the U-8 plate title.

Other previous champions competing this year who missed out on capturing the Datuk Chu Cup were Bintang Baru from Penang (2006, 2007 and 2013), CIMB -YFA (2009- 2012 & 2014), and host Royal Selangor Club (2008).

Every edition of the tournament has never failed to unveil rising stars among these youngsters, and this year was no different.

BRIEF ABOUT THE TOURNAMENT

The RSC Dato’ Chu Ah Nge International Junior Soccer Tournament is a flagship event in the Royal Selangor Club (RSC)’s annual sporting calendar.

Initially launched in 2005 as an opportunity to provide a competitive environment for all age group teams in the Royal Selangor Club, the tournament has since grown rapidly to include teams from around the region. Through the benevolence of the club’s Past-President Dato Chu Ah Nge, the inaugural tournament was a success amongst the participants, both players and coaches and have since organised it as an annual tournament.

This tournament has been acclaimed as one of the premier grassroots junior soccer tournaments in the region and has been gaining popularity every year since its 1^st edition. It has continued to attract a large number of teams from well-known clubs and associations from around this region. This grassroots tournament requires participating teams, clubs and soccer academies to compete in all Five (5) age groups. Competing teams collect points at all age groups, namely the Under-8’s, Under-10’s, Under-12’s, Under-14’s and Under-16’s, with the Dato’ Chu Ah Nge Challenge Trophy being presented to the team that has the highest cumulative point score at the end of the tournament.

SHOT IN THE ARM FOR RSC-DATUK CHU TOURNEY FROM SPORTS MINISTER

2023-12-05T05:57:00.003+08:00

The Sports Minister, Hannah Yeoh in officially declaring the 17^th edition of the Royal Selangor - Datuk Chu Ah Ngde International Junior Soccer tournament at the club’s Sports Annex in Bukit Kiara this morning, gave a tremendous boost by pledging RM20,000 to defray the cost of organising the tournament.

After making the pledge, on the sidelines, she further gave a shot in the arm to the RSC Junior Soccer Development programme who are the organsiers of the tournament, when she told organsing chairman, Datuk Gerald Rakish Kumar, the Ministry would support ringgit for ringgit for the cost of organsing the tournament.

“However, we have to submit an official application early and if approved have to supply receipts for all costs incurred,” Gerald said.

“This is a great event for grassroots, and I am happy to see girls too are competing. This is a boost for women's football,” said Hannah in her speech.

A total of 81 teams and 972 players from clubs and academies are competing in 5 age groups – Under 8, Under 10, Under 12, Under 14 and Under 16.

The two-day tournament has teams from Singapore, Brunei, Maldives, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam competing besides Malaysia.

Hannah also acknowledged the parents present and their support to allow their children to pursue their dreams in the game.

However, Hannah reminded parents to ensure that the clubs and academies they send their children to are registered to enjoy tax exemption for assessment.

In September in Kota Kinabalu, Hannah first announced that parents who send their children for sports training or undergo such activity themselves might qualify for personal tax relief starting next year.

She had said this could be among the ways to encourage parents to send their kids for training, which would, in turn, help with sports development in the country.

During Budget 2024 announcement, the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, announced a tax exemption for lifestyle-related purchases of sports equipment and activities, limited to RM1,000.00, which also extends to expenses related to sports training.

This is something that can be taken advantage of by everyone as any coaching, training, or lessons qualify for the tax exemption.

“The aim of such a tax exemption is that it encourage parents to invest in sports for their children and in doing so will the boost the sports industry,” she said.

“To the parents present here today, I would like to thank you for investing time and money for your children, and I hope that this incentive will be beneficial to you,” she added.

The RSC Datuk Chu Ah Nge International Junior Soccer Tournament is a flagship event in the Royal Selangor Club's (RSC) annual sports calendar.

Initially launched in 2005 as an opportunity to provide a competitive environment for all age group teams in the Royal Selangor Club, the tournament has since grown rapidly to include teams from around the region. Through the benevolence of the club’s past-president, Datuk Chu Ah Nge, the inaugural tournament was a success among the participants, both players and coaches. Since we have annually organised this tournament.

This tournament has been acclaimed as one of the premier grassroots junior soccer tournaments in the region. It has been gaining popularity every year since its first edition and has continued to attract a large number of teams from well-known clubs and associations from around this part of the world.

The Datuk Chu Ah Nge Challenge Trophy is presented to the team that has the highest cumulative point score from all the five age-groups competed at the end of the tournament.

It was fun and a galore of carnival-like atmosphere in a competitive mood on the first day as teams battled to move to the next round tomorrow and eventually in search of honours today.

Another exciting day is in store tomorrow as the teams continue their battle for supremacy.

SHOT IN THE ARM FOR RSC-DATUK CHU TOURNEY FROM SPORTS MINISTER

2023-12-03T11:34:00.003+08:00

The Sports Minister, Hannah Yeoh in officially declaring the 17th
edition of the Royal Selangor - Datuk Chu Ah Nge International Junior Soccer tournament at the club’s Sports Annex in Bukit Kiara yesterday morning, gave a tremendous boost by pledging RM20,000 to defray the cost of organising the tournament.