HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY

WISHES EVERYONE A BLESSED INDEPENDENCE DAY. MAY GOD BLESS THIS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY. MAY ALL RACE AND RELIGION BE UNITED. HAVE A GREAT DAY

REST IN PEACE CAPTAIN HALIM

A month ago I was informed that former FIFA referee Kapten Abdul Halim Abdul Hamid was not well and was admitted at the hospital for a full check up, some even said he was battling against cancer. At 9.20pm Kapten Abdul Halim Abdul Hamid returned to God.

"It is indeed sad that the country has lost such a capable man, at a young age. I have seen Halim growing from a national referee to a FIFA referee. May his soul rest in peace." said Datuk George Joseph, former FAM Head of Referees.

Read fellow blogger Rizal Hashim story on Halim here.

THANK YOU ZAID

FAM Media Officer Zaid Jamaluddin tendered his resignation on Monday and it is learnt he will be leaving on Friday. The former Coporate Communications Manager of Concorde Hotel, accepted the offer of being a Media Officer after was approached by FAM General Secretary Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad.

For Zaid the 12 months span in FAM, was a memorable one and I am sure the experience will be beneficially for him. Personally I had no misunderstandings or arguements with him. Working as FAM media officer is different ball game.

My displeasure with the associations was managed at a professional level. Zaid it was great working with you. I wish all the best and may GOD who is great guide every step that you take and grant you wisdom.

All the best Bro! Keep Rockin

MANCHESTER UNITED BURNED

Burnley celebrated a night they will never forget as veteran duo Robbie Blake and Brian Jensen emerged the heroes in a sensational 1-0 victory over Manchester United. Blake's name will go down as the match winner, and rightly so for a fine 18th-minute near post volley which flashed past Ben Foster after a sustained period of Clarets pressure.

But Jensen deserved equal billing for a superb penalty save to deny Michael Carrick an equaliser just before half-time.

Jensen then kept his cool during a tense second-half that United dominated, without ever looking likely to deny a team desperately trying to record their first top flight win since 1976.

Thirty-three years is a long time to wait. Yet the explosion of noise that greeted the final whistle at Turf Moor suggested it was all worthwhile as Owen Coyle carved another famous day in Burnley's history, and his own managerial career, coming out on top against fellow countryman Sir Alex Ferguson in such unexpected fashion.

As expected, Ferguson had rung the changes, recalling Carrick, Park Ji-sung and Anderson, as well as handing Michael Owen his first start.

The United boss was buoyed no doubt by Jonny Evans declaring himself fit to partner Wes Brown in central defence, which at least gave the Red Devils back line a more durable look.

Not that it seemed as though they would need it as Burnley rocked badly in the opening stages, struggling to get their bearings on a Turf Moor pitch which has waited so long to host top flight action.

Owen harshly had a goal ruled out for offside when he appeared to have timed his run onto Patrice Evra's through-ball to perfection before beating Jensen at the second attempt.

The former Liverpool star should have done better when Evra's left-wing cross flashed past him at the near-post and with Park, Carrick and Wayne Rooney all finding space, it seemed only a matter of time before United cruised to the front.

Yet the opening goal did not come. And as time ticked by, Burnley visibly gained in confidence.

Martin Paterson and record signing Steven Fletcher were both starting to cause problems when the Clarets launched a concerted raid on the visitors goal.

Paterson thought he was going to score when he sprang the United offside trap, only to find Ben Foster bearing down on him from the opposite direction.

The England goalkeeper made a brave block, then Carrick followed suit as Blake tried to turn home the rebound.

United could not relieve the pressure though and when former Manchester City full-back Stephen Jordan drifted a cross to the far-post, Blake was on hand to let fly with a superbly-struck volley which was past Foster before the United keeper had a chance to react.

A noisy crowd, raised the decibel level to ear-splitting proportions - but Coyle knew the job was not get done.

He knew exactly what to expect from the visitors, who recovered their poise and went after his team.

Yet, in front of Fabio Capello, Owen completely missed his intended header when Brown curled over a near-post cross which found England's fourth-highest goalscorer completely unmarked.

The odds must have been on Owen taking the penalty when Evra was upended by Blake as he nicked the ball towards Burnley's goal.

Instead, Carrick took responsibility - and Jensen emerged the hero, just as he did last season when his spot-kick saves turfed Chelsea out of the Carling Cup.

Jensen must have expected to be kept busy after the interval. But although United dominated possession, they had few clear-cut chances.

A long-range effort from Rooney that sailed harmlessly over was the best they could manage until Park created a bit of space for himself and forced Jensen into a fine full-length save, with Jordan hammering away the rebound.

By that time, Antonio Valencia and Dimitar Berbatov had been introduced; Owen making way after another disappointing contribution.

The pair made a difference. But Burnley were not to be denied, throwing themselves in the way of any United threat.

Jensen was a rock behind a sturdy defence and the final whistle ended a run of 17 straight wins for United against newly-promoted sides. More importantly, it marked Burnley's return to the elite - SOCCER NET

BAM MUST WALK THE TALK

FORMER Perak badminton player and badminton specialist writer K.M.Boopathy says that the ability to produce that extra spark when the chips are down is sorely missing from Malaysia's top doubles' repertoire, and national coaches Rexy Mainaky and Rosman Razak are leaving no stone unturned to solve this problem.

Read his story here .

Personally the fact that Malaysia returned empty handed from the World Championship is alarming, and it seems like BAM is becoming like FAM, they have adopted a "Tidak Apa Attitude", Whether the doubles lost by one point or two point, it is still a lost, no one remembers semi-finalists or runner -up, people only remember champions.

BAM should start cracking the whip if they are serious about winning a gold in the 2012 London Olympics. If the players don't make it this time around, then BAM and FAM are in the same boat. Players only remain "JAGUH KAMPUNG OR JAGUH BANDAR".

Malaysian players lacked mental toughness, and mental toughness is someting athletes are born with, it starts from home, ask Tiger Woods he did not have mental trainers from American Sports Science Insitute to help him.

It started with his father, and Tiger moved on from there. I feel our Badminton players are pampererd to much, and I will not be suprise if Malaysia does not win a gold in London. Looking at Lin Dan's game and performance at the recent World Championship, Chong Wei might need to train in China and not South Korea.

I believe he wasted tax payers money by going to Korea and then failing in the semi's against Sony Dwi Kuncoro. Why did Chong Wei go to Korea and train under Li Mao ? Is Li Mao better then Misbun ? Maybe Chong Wei is not progressing under Misbun ? Maybe there were other external elements involved in the defeat.

BAM must stop giving excuses !

MALAYSIA OFFERED ASIAN CHAMPIONS TROPHY

Malaysia have been offered to be the host of the inaugural Asian Champions Trophy after Pakistan pulled out of hosting the event that was scheduled for September this year.

Asian Hockey Federation Hon. Secretary Tan Sri P. Alagendra said that the AHF Council that met last month in China had agreed to offer the host job to Malaysia and a letter to this effect was sent to the Malaysia Hockey Confederation on July 29.

"We are awaiting the decision of the MHC after which we will decide the next course of action should Malaysia decline," said Alagendra

Read fellow blogger's take here

SAM IS STILL RELEVANT

BERITA Harian Sports Writer Ahmad Khawari Isa became the President of the Sports Writers Association of Malaysia (SAM), replacing TV3 Sports Editor Bakar Atan who did not seek contest.

Star’s Eric Samuel gained 24 votes while Asan Ahmad of Kosmo gained 33 votes to become SAM’s Vice President. While incumbent Hj Alimi Wan gained 23 votes.
(Pix courtesy:Loose Cannon)

On May 31st, 2010 the AGM will be held and a fresh elections will be conducted by the new committee.

Bakar in his speech clearly showed his disappointment by saying that many SAM members are all talk but no action which happens to be the truth as in most cases committee members only talk but shy away from carrying out responsibilities.

Being a SAM member is only a contribution that one makes to enchance the association that was formed in 1984. I have seen people like Johnson Fernandez and Datuk Fauzi Omar working relentlessly and yet they did not benefit anything out of it.

Bakar is right in saying that, “Being a president comes with heavy responsibilities and commitment”. Some people gunned Bakar down in a very hurtful manner but then again why does Bakar have to take all the blame ? Aren’t members to share the responsibility as well ?

Firstly, Khawari has to unite all members and make it more Malaysian. A committee comprising of all races, a One Malaysia.

I was there to witness the election, sadly only 44 people turned up. Are there only 44 people active in SAM as compared to the 450 members of SAM ?.

The new exco must ensure that SAM moves to the next level, a level that brings members from all walks life together.

I am sure where there is will, they is a way.

ARE YOU SUPRISED CHONG WEI LOST, I AM NOT

World top men's singles player Lee Chong Wei crashed out of the Yonex-Sunrise World Badminton Championship when he lost to Indonesian Sony Dwi Kuncoro Friday night

Chong Wei who was still trying to grab the elusive world championship title failed to display his true form in court and played a slow game most of the time, leading to his easy defeat in the quarter-finals.

He lost 16-21, 21-14, 12-21 to Sony, who also defeated Chong Wei in the quarter-finals in the 2007 World Championships held in Kuala Lumpur."He (Sony) played very good today and I was a little under pressure.

I tried to come back in the second round but Sony was more patient and I lost confidence."From young I always aimed for the Olympic (medal) and the world championship (title) but in big tournaments, I just can't win, may be no luck."Now I just want to take some rest and discuss with my coach of my later plans," a smiling and relaxed Chong Wei told reporters.Chong Wei's highest achievement in the world championship was a bronze medal which he won in 2005.

Meanwhile, Sony told reporters that he exploited Chong Wei's weakness in court to win the crucial tie."I was more relaxed and played carefully. I started to play long rallies and more at the net. He too played well," said Sony.

SPORTS SCHOOL IN SEPANGGAR TO FOCUS ON WATER SPORTS

The Malaysian Sports School that is currently under construction in Sepanggar, near here, is a manifestation of the government's seriousness in giving greater emphasis towards the development of sports in the country.

Deputy Education Minister, Ir Datuk Wee Ka Siong said this was the direction that Malaysia is heading in the development of sports and that Sabah was not exempted.

"We already have a Malaysian Sports School in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur and also one in Bandar Penawar, Johor and the one that is being built in Sepanggar will be the third of such school in the country.

"The school in Sepanggar will focus on the development of water sports as Sabah is known for producing athletes for water sports," he said.

Wee told reporters this after officially opening the 4th Asian Schools Football Championship Under-15 at the Likas Sports Complex here, Thursday.

He said the school, which is scheduled for completion in 2012, will be among some of the plans that the Deputy Prime Minister has in store for sports development in the country.

"We will also have several Teachers' Training Institutes which will produce teachers that are trained in Physical Education.

"And there are plans to increase coaching programmes to produce more qualified personnel to take on coaching roles. These and other approaches signify the government's seriousness in developing sports in this country, said Wee.

He said among the sports that the government is aiming to revive and further develop is football.

"In the 80s football used to be popular in Malaysia. Recently, however, interest in football has seen a sharp decline following Malaysia poor performance in the global arena.

"I think we are now number 160 in football out of 162 countries and that is terrible," said Wee.

FAM TO WORK WITH FIFA , ENGLAND FA

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has formed a cooperation with world governing body, Fifa and England FA to help raise the standard of local football, especially women's football.

FAM Secretary General Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad said the cooperation was to enhance development, promotion and marketing of women's football, so that the sport can become popular.

"We have a problem in developing women football due to lack of finance and cultural hindrance," he said

Azzuddin added that discussions were held with a number of ministries in the month of May, to play a more supportive and prominent role in the development of women football in the country.

Women's football in the country is hampered by a lack of players, is less organised and do not have a league and the standard of the country's women football is far off the mark when compared with Myanmar or Thailand, he said.

Azzuddin earlier held a meeting with Fifa's development officer for women's football, Michele Cox and England FA's women's football committee member Kelly Simmons.

"Michele and Kelly will conduct a seminar today for state officials involved in football, National Sports Council representatives and those involved in the sport, to brief them of the necessary steps to be taken," he said.

The England women's team, ranked ninth in the Fifa ranking list, are a power in world football and according to Kelly, Malaysia would need seven to eight years to succeed. - BERNAMA

BFM 89.9 WHAT ABOUT HELPING MALAYSIAN SPORTS ?

Tommorrow Malaysian football fans will witness a change in the landscape of Malaysian radio, when the Barclays Premier League Season 09/10 hits the airwaves LIVE for the very first time, only on BFM89.9.

With made‐for‐radio commentary LIVE from the UK for all weekend matches, and original local programming supporting the live matches, BFM89.9 are delivering ‘Football Anywhere’ for Malaysian fans, bringing not only the best football league in the world to their listeners, but also introducing a new advent in sports radio programming.

BFM’s local content delivery will focus on the latest Premier League news, hot off the press with exclusive interviews direct to the UK, opportunities for fans to have their say, prematch predictions, energetic and lively discussions, debates and lots of humour!

Extensive fan interaction with an enthusiastic and knowledgeable team of presenters provide Malaysian football fans the opportunity to communicate their opinions and predictions on arguably the most well‐known and widely supported football league in the world today.

My question is, why cant BFM help Malaysian Sports as well, can BFM spare 15 minutes of its air time, to talk about local sports. Afterall we produce and have top athletes such as Nicol David and Lee Chong Wei.

There is to much of English Football being broadcasted in the country, maybe BFM can do something for local sports as well.

Congratulations to former AFC Communications Director Claire Kenny who played an important role in getting these done through her company called Sports Cast Sdn Bhd which is a sports media and marketing company.

WELL DONE VIETNAM

ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) honorary general secretary Dato’ Paul Mony Samuel has lauded Vietnam’s Thanh Nien-sponsored U21 football tournaments.

Samuel said Thanh Nien has done an excellent job organizing the U21 national tournament for 13 consecutive years and the U21 for the past three years. That is a great achievement, Samuel said.

He made the statement to Thanh Nien reporters before the opening of the U19 Southeast Asian Football Championship finals, which started on Tuesday in Ho Chi Minh City.“It indicates that you are very consistent and have made big contributions to the growth of Vietnamese football. The biggest achievement was the AFF Cup 2008 championship,” Samuel said.

Asked what he thinks about the current state of youth football in Vietnam, Samuel said he had been tracking the development of Vietnamese football for more than 15 years and could see that the sport has made huge strides in the country, especially in youth training.“However, more improvements should be made,” Samuel added. “Remember that youth training is always very hard and requires a lot of time, money and effort.

“I think youth training is much harder than organizing a competition for clbs or national squads. You must be very patient.”When asked what criteria are necessary to develop a talented pool of youth footballers in Southeast Asia, especially in Vietnam, Samuel said three elements were required. First, a body of excellent trainers is needed. Secondly, money and time are very important. Finally and most importantly, there is a need for regular competitions so young players can gain experience, Samuel said.

“Basically, they are not very experienced because they haven’t had many opportunities to compete. Apart from competitions organized by AFF, there is almost nothing.”
Meanwhile, in Vietnam, Thanh Nien has done a very impressive job of setting up the U21 football tournament, a good competition for young players, according to Samuel.

For a decade, Thanh Nien has cooperated with the Vietnam Football Federation to hold the U21 national tournament and three years ago initiated the U21 international tournament, creating a chance for countries in the region to improve their youth football.

It is wonderful to have 36 U21 squads from V-League and First Division clubs to compete in the qualifying round before selecting the best eights for the finals, Samuel said.
“In Malaysia, where I live, it is very hard to organize a competition for

Concerning the U21 international tournament, Samuel said Thanh Nien should invite national teams in the region first before considering more powerful ones like China or Iran.
It may be better to first invite national teams from Southeast Asia, then move on to East Asian teams like Japan and South Korea before taking on teams from West Asia or the Persian Gulf, Samuel said. Such a strategy would be a good way to gradually increase competitiveness for the U21 international tournament.

Reported by Quang Tuyen – Giang Lao

FIFPRO SIGNS MOU WITH AFF

FIFPro Asia, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF). The MOU was specifically designed to reinforce cooperation and dialogue between these international organizations, on the major issues facing professional football in the ASEAN region.

The MOU would also foster the development of professional domestic leagues in Southeast Asia with FIFPro’s Asian division providing its expertise on player-related matters, as well as combat doping and racism in the game.

Dato’ Seri Paul Mony Samuel, the Honorary Secretary of the AFF welcomed the agreement with FIFPro Asia. “The AFF is extremely happy to have an MOU with the Asian arm of FIFPro, the world governing body of professional footballers’ associations.” The 3rd FIFPro Asia Congress also passed a series of important resolutions that safeguards the welfare and rights of Asia’s professional players including developing professionalism and the international competitiveness of Asian football, compliance with FIFA regulations and supporting the development of independent professional footballers’ associations in Malaysia, China and South Korea.

FIFPro Secretary General, Theo van Seggelen, stated, “The Congress was very successful especially as FIFPro has a lot of confidence in its Asian Division. It is important that all players from around the world are provided equal opportunities within the FIFA regulatory framework. Obviously a lot of work has to be done, but there is no reason why we cannot succeed and we will not rest until that objective is reached.

New professional footballers’ associations have been established in India and Indonesia while China needs to recognize its players as stakeholders of the game. FIFPro will obtain the assistance of FIFA to help solve the problems discussed and have included setting up NDRC and complying with FIFA regulations and there is no reason for any country not to comply with this.” Yongsoo Park, the Head of the Development and Strategy Team of the Korean FA, was impressed with the progress made by FIFPro Asia since the inaugural meeting in Sydney, Australia. He stated, “At the first meeting in 2007, there were only three members of the Division but now it has grown to be a dynamic member of the FIFPro family.”

The Chairman of FIFPro Asia, Brendan Schwab said, “The Congress is undoubtedly a success as when we began the Division Asia, which also encompasses Oceania in 2003, we had representation in 3 of the 56 member nations of AFC & OFC. Our development in terms of setting up and reaching agreements now has reached 25 of the 56 member nations and we are delighted with Indonesia, India and Malaysia with great possibilities of South Korea and China to join this division by 2010

TERROR THREAT

Terror threat has prompted England to pull out of the badminton World Championships scheduled to begin on Monday at Gatchibowl in Hyderabad. Badminton England released a statement saying there had been a reported threat against the championships by the Pakistan-based Islamic militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Chief executive Adrian Christy said there was consultation with the British Foreign Office and British High Commission and local police before making the decision to withdraw from the event - second only to the Olympics as badminton's leading tournament. "This was an incredibly tough decision and one we didn't take lightly," Christy said in a statement.

"We were not prepared to risk the safety of our players, coaches and staff in what we felt could have been a very volatile environment." "The conclusion is that safety is of paramount importance and therefore, with great regret, the team will be returning home immediately."

High performance director Ian Moss said the decision was supported unanimously by the squad. "Our athletes were extremely well prepared for these championships but, at the end of the day, personal safety must take priority over performance," Moss said.

NO SPORTS CULTURE, WHAT SPORTS INDUSTRY ARE WE TALKING ABOUT !

Malaysia's first participation in the Olympics history began in 1956, but until today, the sports industry in this country is still considered as a young and emerging sector.

And 10 years ago, sports contributed about RM10 million for the country but today, nobody knows about the exact figure of the young industry.

Some might say the sports industry today is worth millions of Ringgit but no government agency has statistics of the import, export or other business data related to the industry.That's the finding of Malaysia Sports Industry Convention 2009 (Kismas 09) which was held at Berjaya Times Square Convention Centre here today.The 500 participants of the two-day convention which started today, were told that Malaysia -- as the favourite destination for international sports events -- has yet to set up a designated department or unit in related government agencies to monitor the cash flow of our Ringgit or foreign currencies.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, when officiating the convention today, admitted that Malaysia had yet to set up its own data base to collect all information related to the sports industry."We're still gathering all the facts.

Only then will we know the contribution of the sports industry to our economy," he said.One of the speakers at the convention, Universal Fitness Leisure Sdn Bhd (UFL) managing director Datuk Radha Krishnan, was quite vocal when questioning the fact that there was no agency to monitor the cash flow of the sports industry.

He cited Sukan Malaysia (Sukma) which was held every two years, in that RM30 to RM40 million was allocated per chapter, but how much money generated from the event was not documented.He said the sports industry should not be limited to just sporting apparel or equipment but must also include a diversity of activities such as wholesale, retailing, sports tourism, construction and certain aspect of manufacturing."However, the problem with Malaysia is that our local producers do not see their role as the global manufacturer," he said in his paper, `Business Strategies in Sports Industry'.

The general manager for High Performance Centre in New Zealand, Martin Toomey, said the relevant authorities must have the right attitude when giving scholarships to athletes."When you give scholarships, you are not contributing but your are investing," he said when tabling a paper, `The Impact of the Sports Industry on a Nation's Performance'.

He said New Zealand, with just 4.3 million people, had three per cent or 37,500 of the population involved in the sport industry, and generated about US$75 billion (RM272 billion) annually from the sector.Dr T. J. Rosandich of the United States Sports Academy said Malaysia was lucky to have a dedicated youth and sports ministry, National Sports Council and National Sports Institute.

He said that in the USA, there was no dedicated government department or agency to take care of sport.Tabling his paper, 'Sports Education - Empowering the Industry', Rosandich said the six million school students and 22,000 high school students in the USA were monitored by their respective state sport bodies."And, the majority of the sport bodies are run on a voluntarily basis," he said.--BERNAMA

MALAYSIA THRASHED

Mighty Egypt squashed Malaysia out of the 13th World Junior Women's Team Squash Championship today, cutting short Malaysia's dream of a podium finish.

The Egyptian girls scored a straight 3-0 victory over Malaysia in the quarter-final match, played at the Tamil Nadu Squash Rackets Association hall in Chennai.In the first match, Nour El Sherbini stopped Tan Yan Xin -- 9-11, 11-6, 11-2, 11-1 and Heba El Torky tamed Low Wee Nee 11-5, 11-3, 11-5.In the last match Nour El Tayeb subdued Nessrine Ariffin 11-1, 11-9 without playing the third set.

In another crucial match, Canada almost upset second seeded and host India, but the Indian youngsters managed to come back from a 0-1 deficit to a 2-1 victory to secure a place in the semifinals.Egypt will now meet the United States in the semi-finals and in the other set of semis, India will play against Hong Kong tomorrow.Malaysia and England will play for the fifth and sixth placing while Canada and New Zealand will contest for the seventh and eight spots.

ARSENAL TO WIN THE EPL !

Arsène Wenger is targeting up to two new players before the transfer window closes – but Patrick Vieira is unlikely to be one of them.

Speaking at the launch of Arsenal’s Charity of the Season, the French manager suggested he was interested in “one offensive and one defensive player” to add to his squad.However when asked about the much-rumoured re-signing of his former captain, Wenger replied: "Not at the moment, no.”

He went on: "We can still make do with one or two players more. "One could be in the defensive areas, and one in the attacking areas. "We make a few enquires for players, but we are nowhere near to signing anybody at the moment. "Usually the transfer market only speeds up from August 26 up to midnight on August 31 – and especially in the last two hours."* Arsenal’s new Charity of the Season is Great Ormond Street Hospital.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE PLAYERS AFTER THESE!

SMK Mohd Nazrul Mazlan was the toast of SMK Putera as the Kelantan school edged former champions SMK Guar Perahu of Penang 1-0 in the final at the Cochrane Sports Excellence Centre to take this year’s 100PLUS Supe Cup Champion Schools title.

It was a final that could have gone either way but it was tale of missed chances for the tired teams.

However SMK Putera, runners-up to SMK Anderson of Perak last year, were determined not to play second fiddle again.

The East Coast side stepped up a gear when it mattered most against the gritty opponents from Penang who failed to make the quarter-finals last year.

The winner came in the 57th minute when Mohd Ferris Danial Mohd Nor broke through on the left and sent a teasing shot into the six yard box for Nazrul to put the finishing touches that had Guar Perahu goalkeeper Muhammad Fahmi Ali well beaten.

SMK Putera coach Mahadi Hassan was not only pleased with the result but was pleasantly surprised that his team walked away with five other awards in the four-day tournament.

The champions won the best goalkeeper award through Mohd Fakhrul Ikram Azahari while Mohd Ferris picked up the top scorer’s award with five goals in the tournament.

There was more joy for SMK Putera when Mohd Rozaimi Azwar Mohd Nor won two awards when he was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player apart from winning the Man of the Match award in the final.

SMK Putera also won the Fair Play award to round up a memorable outing in this year’s tournament which made up for the 2-0 defeat to Anderson in the final last year.

SMK Guar Perahu’s Mohd Naim Zakaria was named the Best Midfielder while SMK Kuala Nerang’s (Kedah) Mohd Shahrizal Abdullah was the Best Defender.

“I must admit that it was not our best performance in the final. They players were lethargic and tired. But the determination to win saw us come through,” said Mahadi.

SMK Guar Perahu coach Zaid Yahya said: “We had come with high hopes of winning the title this year as most of my players were in the team last year. However, it was not our day.

“We gave our best but it was not good enough for us to be the champions. I have no complaints as the players played their hearts out.”

SMK Guar Perahu last won the title in 2004 when the tournament was held in Kota Baru, beating Sabah’s Mengabang Talipot in the final.

Earlier in the morning, Kuala Nerang beat SMK Clifford, Kuala Kangsar of Perak 4-1 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in extra time to take the third place

ROLL OF HONOUR

CHAMPIONS: SMK Putera (Kelantan)
THIRD: SMK Kuala Nerang (Kedah)
RUNNERS-UP: SMK Guar Perahu (Penang)
TOP SCORER: Mohd Ferris Danial Mohd Nasir (SMK Putera)
BEST DEFENDER: Mohd Shahrizal Abdullah (SMK Kuala Nerang, Kedah)
BEST MIDFIELDER: Mohd Naim Zakaria (SMK Guar Perahu)
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER: Mohd Rozaimi Azwar Mohd Nor (SMK Putera)
MAN OF THE MATCH (Final): Mohd Rozaimi Azwar Mohd Nor (SMK Putera)
FAIRPLAY: SMK Putera

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DATO PAUL

DATO Sri Paul Mony Samuel celebrates his 64th Birthday today, and for me personally it is a honour to have worked with great individual who has contributed his entire life to football. Thanks to my boss, friend and mentor George Das who gave me the opportunity to be there.

Born in Kuala Ketil on August 5, 1945, these inspiring man made excellent contribution to national and international football in several capacities in a career which started in the sixties as a regular player for the state side of Kedah before branching off successfully into administration where he carved out a niche for himself.

His hands-on and savvy administrator skills is well documented and he has served football unselfishly over the past few decades. He is well known for his impeccable organisational skills and has played key roles in the successful organisation of several top AFC and FIFA competitions.

Received his early education at St.Theresa's Primary school, Sungai Petani. He continued his secondary education at Ibrahim Secondary School and went on to Study at University Pertanian Malaysia and obtained B.Ed (TESL). He also has a Diploma in Football Coaching from the England FA.

Infact his first book "FOOTBALL ADMINISTRATION" was adopted by FIFA for their FUTORA Football Program.

Deep within his heart, he is still very much willing to help FAM in football development, but unfortunately FAM has not asked him for his help. He would be an ideal candidate as the Sports Commissioner for the these country.

For me personally Dato Paul should be brought back to FAM, so that the years of football experience will not go to waste and the nation can benefit from it. He served FAM for 18 years and then was a FIFA Development Officer, AFC General Secretray, and now he is Honorary Secretary of Asean Football Federation. He has been appointed as FIFA General Co-Ordinator since the 1994 US World Cup. He is still a FIFA instructer and many people in the football scene still look up to him for advise.

In 2008 he was awarded "LIFE TIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD" by the Sultan Mizan at the NSC Annual Sports Awards. Dato, May these day bring love,joy and peace and may GOD Keep you in Good Health and Bless You Always.

THANK YOU ZAID, ALL THE BEST

FAM Media Officer Zaid Jamaluddin tendered his resignation on Monday, It is learnt that the former Concorde Hotel Communications Manager will be joining a well known property company as their Regional Director.

For Zaid the 12 months span in FAM, was a memorable one and I am sure the experience will be beneficially for him. Personally I had no misunderstandings or arguements with him.

My displeasure with the associations was managed at a professional level. Zaid it was great working with you. I wish all the best and may GOD who is great guide every step that you take and grant you his wisdom.

All the best Bro!

NOTHING BUT A WIN THAT MATTERS

The fight is far from over for Malaysia who lost their opening match in the AFF Under-19 Championship here last night. Instead, the Malaysians are determined to push on and claim victory in their remaining group matches against Timor Leste and Myanmar.

Prevailing in their last two matches tomorrow and on Saturday will give Malaysia a good chance of making the semi-finals. “There are still two matches to go and we still are in with a chance of qualifying. We must respect all our our opponents. Both Myanmar and Timor Leste will also want to do well,” said Ong Kim Swee after last night’s match.

Malaysia held Vietnam in the first half, especially because of the brave efforts of goalkeeper Mohd Khairul Izzuwan who pulled off some brilliant saves.Vietnam stepped on the gas after the break and cracked the Malaysian defence in the 47th and 61st minutes through strikers Nguyen Dinh Bao and skillful skipper Nguyen Van Quyet.“It was a good game and Vietnam played well.

The second half was different as Vietnam players used their speed to kill us with two quick goals. They have some very good players and I believe they willgive the other teams some problems.”Kim Swee is also hoping that his players will have recovered for the second match tomorrow against Timor Leste. “We just arrived one day before our opening match. Also, five of our players had played on Sunday.”

Timor Leste, who arrived yesterday and missed their opening match in the evening, will be determined to make up for the walkover. And the ones who will be on the receiving end will be the Malaysians. As little is known about Timor Leste, tomorrow’s match could well provide some surprises.

INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLIES FOR MALAYSIA

Malaysia will get to play against senior national team’s from China, Kenya and Saudi Arabia in their preparations for the Laos SEA Games Under-23 football competition in December.

National coach K. Rajagopal said the three matches against the higher ranked teams would serve as good warm-up games for the national Under-23 players following the cancellation of the Inter-Continental Cup Under-23 tournament (June 1-14) and the Merdeka Tournament (Aug 1-15).

The two tournaments scheduled in Kuala Lumpur were called off due to the influenza A (H1N1) virus scare.

Malaysia are hoping to land the SEA Games gold they last won in 1989.

“Kenya and Saudi are preparing for their 2010 South Africa World Cup qualification matches while China are gearing up for the Asian Cup,” said Rajagopal.

He said the invitation to face the Saudis in Riyadh on Aug 30 came as an honour.

“The Saudis, with a world ranking of 61, are involved in a crucial World Cup qualifying play-off against Bahrain on Sept 5 and 9,” said Rajagopal.

Kenya are ranked 105th in the world, China are 108th while Malaysia are 157th.

A total of 27 players have been called up for centralised training. Malaysia are scheduled to play China on Aug 12 and Kenya on Aug 15. Both matches are scheduled at the Shah Alam Stadium.

Goalkeepers: Farizal Marlias (Perlis), Syed Adney Syed Hussein (MyTeam), Sharbinee Allawee (Ter);

Defenders: Mazlizam Mohd (Per), Khairul Helmi Johari, Mat Sabree Mat Abu (Ked), Mohd Asra­rud­­din Putra Omar (Sel), Mohd Aidil Zafuan Abdul Razak (Nse), Mohd Muslim Ahmad, Mahalli Jasuli, Faizal Mohamed (Harimau);

Midfielders: Mohd Azmi Muslim, Mohd Bunya­min Umar (MyTeam), G. Mahathevan (Shahzan), Amar Rohidan (Per), Mohd Khyril Muhymeen (Ked), Mohd Amirulhadi Zainal (Sel), Safiq Rahim (KL Plus), K. Gurusamy, Mohd Izzaq Faris, Mohd Fandi Othman (Harimau);

Forwards: Farderin Kadir (K.M. Naza), Norsharul Idlan Talaha (MyTeam), Mohd Zaquan Adha Abdul Razak, S. Kunalan (Nse), Badrol Bakthiar (Ked) Ahmad Shakir Ali (Harimau).

SOURCE : THE STAR

EPF MUST TAKE ACTION AGAINST THESE IRRESPONSIBLE STATES

IF a corporate company did not comply with the EPF's laws, that particular company would have been taken to court or any other punishment that is deemed fit, but why is EPF waiting to take action against these states. Since 2006 the problem has not been resolved. EPF must take action now before RM 6 million becomes RM 60 million. In Malaysia any thing can happen .. This is BOLEHLAND.

(Graphic - Malay Mail)

SAME OLD STORY ! SAME OLD RUBBISH !

THE Employees Provident Fund (EPF) has instructed the state football associations to settle the outstanding amount of RM5.4 million which has
been due since 2006.

Timesport has been informed that the EPF sent the FA of Malaysia (FAM) a letter to instruct the State FAs to settle the outstanding amount.
It is also learnt that a number of states are facing legal action for non-payment.

"The onus is on the State and clubs and we are not going to solve this problem for them." said FAM general secretary Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad

Kedah FA is the highest on the list as they owe EPF RM800,000, while Perak and Perlis FAs are second with RM600,000 and Selangor RM170,000.

" The FAM president Sultan Ahmad Shah has instructed the secretariat to send a letter to all states and clubs requesting them to submit a
repayment plan by Sept 15," added Azzuddin.

It is also learnt that Sultan Ahmad Shah is upset that the state FAs are repeating their mistakes . Kuala Lumpur, Negri Sembilan, Kelantan and Penang are the only states
prompt in their contributions. This problem is expected to get worse next year as many states are
using the FAM grant to settle their outstanding debts.

By Christopher Raj
August 16, 2008

The above story was written, when I was tipped by an EPF officer about the debts owed by the State FA's

Read the Story Below, and see how different it is now, FAM all talk but no action. FAM does not have enough strength and power to throw the states out, FAM is weak , FAM fears the states simply because the top officials depend on the votes that comes from the states.

In Malaysia it is the State FA's that calls the shot not FAM, FAM are just implementers.

For the the last 15 years we been told about this same old rubbish, but nothing is done, I dare FAM to take action against Pahang. Just look at the pathetic situation. Even the State, where the President comes from is not in order. Come on FAM, don't give us this lame stories that has been told over and over again. I dare you to walk the talk, or else resign!

THE Employees Provident Fund (EPF) warned action will be taken action
errant State FAs, including dragging them to court, for failing to pay
contributions on behalf of their players.

EPF Public Relations general manager Nik Affendi Jaafar stressed that legal action was initiated against State FAs in the past and that EPF will continue to do so in order to protect the interest of the employees — the players.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), during their competitions committee meeting yesterday, revealed that several State FAs have defaulted in making EPF payments. The total sum mentioned was in excess of RM6 million. This figure excludes outstanding wages due to players.

“There have been associations that were charged. This has been a problem for sometime now,” said Nik Affendi. “We know some associations are facing financial difficulties and we sympathise with them but the employers must be mindful of their legal obligations. Our concern is to safeguard the players’ savings.”

The Kedah FA top the list with more than RM2.7 million owing to EPF while Kelantan have yet to pay RM855,611. The list, titled Ringkasan Status Tindakan Terhadap Majikan Gagal Mencarum setakat 27 July 2009 (Summary of the status of action taken towards defaulting employers as of 27 July 2009), was tabled during the competitions committee meeting.

It is unclear if any of the State FAs mentioned have cleared their debts to date. A total of 126 employers were fined RM214,190 in the first quarter of 2009 for failure to pay EPF contributions which falls under Section 43(2) EPF Act 1991.

The Act stipulates that employers are to remit the monthly contributions before or on the 15th day of every month or face legal action.

During the same period, a total of 1,194 civil suits and 1,849 criminal cases were filed with the courts against those who have defaulted on payments.

“No one can escape from us. We’ve been working closely with FAM and they are well aware of the situation with the State FAs. “Any party which defaults for two months will be served a reminder, following which legal action will be instituted,” added Nik Affendi.- Story by Haresh Deol.

YOUNG TIGERS WINS PREMIER LEAGUE TITLE

This is song dedicated to the Young Tigers who clinched their Premier League title at the National Stadium, Bukit Jalil as they defeated KL 2-1.

Despite winning the Young Tigers were not presented the trophy, simply because the FAM was not sure if they could win it or lose the title.

Ong Kim Swee's team leaves for the AFF U-19 Championship in Vietnam, today.

JAIHO dedicates this song for the Young Tigers who actually put to shame many of the state teams and clubs.

JAIHO Salutes You!

FAM, HOW ABOUT SOME FAIRPLAY?

ONE wonders if FAM Competitions Committee Chairman, Datuk Che Mat Jusoh is aware of what Young Tigers are made of?

First of all, Young Tigers are a professional team and not an amateur team as claimed by certain quarters, maybe one is not aware of the difference between a professional and an amateur team.

The 28 players in the Young Tigers squad are all contracted for 2 years and players are paid salaries around RM 4500.00 excluding of match bonuses and all players are fully sponsored by Nike. The Young Tigers are provided with accommodation and meals at Wisma FAM, and they are also sent overseas for training.

Amateurs players do not get any of the above except for training allowances. So let’s set the record straight that the Young Tigers are a professional team.

On Friday and Saturday, two stories appeared in a local Malay daily which read ,

FIRST STORY

HADIAH wang RM200,000 untuk juara Liga Perdana akan menjadi milik T-Team, pasukan Persatuan Bola Sepak Kuala Terengganu, yang pertama kali bertarung dalam saingan itu musim ini.

Apapun keputusan perlawanan terakhir liga, Ahad ini antara T-Team dan Shahzan Muda, dan juga pendahulu liga, Harimau Muda dan Kuala Lumpur, segala keistimewaan yang diberikan kepada juara juga menjadi milik T-Team.

Ini kerana, menurut Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pertandingan Persatuan Bola Sepak Malaysia (FAM), Datuk Che Mat Jusoh, pembabitan Harimau Muda cuma sebagai pasukan jemputan yang memerlukan pendedahan dan latihan.

Walaupun skuad belia kebangsaan itu mengungguli liga jika mereka menang atau seri dengan Kuala Lumpur nanti, mereka tetap tidak naik ke Liga Super atau menerima hadiah kemenangan.

SECOND STORY

MALAM esok, Harimau Muda bakal bergelar juara Liga Perdana 2009 jika mengalahkan Kuala Lumpur tetapi mereka terpaksa menerima hakikat tidak akan mendapat sebarang habuan sebaliknya pasukan di tangga kedua, T-Team akan tersenyum lebar apabila imbuhan juara akan masuk ke kantung mereka. akan melengkapkan jadual Liga Perdana 2009 dengan menentang Kuala Lumpur dan kemenangan akan menobatkan skuad bimbingan jurulatih Ong Kim Swee itu sebagai juara musim ini.

Mungkin kedengaran agak aneh apabila skuad bergelar juara tidak akan mendapat sebarang imbuhan yang ditawarkan kepada pasukan yang memenangi Liga Perdana tapi itulah hakikat yang terpaksa ditelan Harimau Muda.

Kalaupun di Stadium Nasional Bukit Jalil malam esok menyaksikan Harimau Muda menang sekali gus bergelar juara, mereka hanya boleh berbangga dengan gelaran semata-mata dan pasukan yang bakal tersenyum lebar ialah T-Team kerana walaupun menduduki tangga kedua, semua keistimewaan termasuk imbuhan selaku juara akan masuk ke kantung mereka.

Enggan perkara itu menimbulkan sebarang reaksi yang tidak diingini, Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pertandingan Tempatan (JKPT) Persatuan Bola Sepak Malaysia (FAM), Datuk Che Mat Jusoh bingkas melerai semua persoalan yang dirasanya mungkin ditimbulkan banyak pihak.

I am quite puzzled by Che Mat’s statement just one day before the crucial game, as the Young Tigers will take on KL tonight at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil.

Maybe he wants the Young Tigers to fall, so that T-Team which is funded by UMNO politicians from Terengganu could see action in Super League next season. Why did Che Mat make such a statement condemning the players, instead of coming out to say that they hoped the players will make FAM proud by winning the Premier League Title ?

The Young Tigers only need one point to win the Premier League title.
Are these are the kind of officials that have been entrusted to provide the council with a new format for Malaysian Super League? I cannot imagine what the recommendation would be.

Young Tigers should be given the prize money. After all, they are professional and they have slogged and worked hard for the rewards. People like Che Mat Jusoh should just keep silent and ensure that the development of a proper structure, instead of constantly coming up with league structures that have only sent our national team to the doldrums.

If FAM decides that RM 200,000 cannot be given to them, then the money should be used for training stints, and not reward a team that has finished second.

These are officials who are absent to watch our national team in action, but are present to watch Manchester United playing, maybe FAM General Secretary Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad, should prepare an attendance list to check how many FAM officials and council members come to watch their very own team in action. This is how pathetic and shameful they are, yet so damaging with their statements.

“Bang, saya sedih kerana FAM sendiri tak percayakan kami boleh menang malam, mereka nak kita kalah “ a Young Tiger player sent me that SMS last night.

While FAM’s administration and K.Rajagopal slogged for two years in preparing the team, now Ong Kim Swee has taken over the challenge, I think it is only fair that FAM rewards the team accordingly, and not to reward T-Team even if they finish second.

In sports we only honour Champions, while those who finish second have to try harder next year, so I hope tonight the YOUNG TIGERS will ‘ roar ‘ and be crowned the Champions of the Premier League.

JAIHO Young Tigers !

INTERVIEW WITH SIR BOBBY

A TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND

FOOTBALL MOURNS LOSS OF SIR BOBBY

Former England manager Sir Bobby Robson has passed away at the age of 76, having finally lost a long battle against cancer.Robson, who distinguished himself first during a lengthy tenure that put Ipswich Town back on the map with FA Cup and UEFA Cup wins in 1978 and 1982 respectively, took on the England job and led them to the semi finals of the World Cup in 1990.

A spell on the continent included jobs at PSV Eindhoven, Sporting Lisbon, FC Porto and Barcelona before a return to his North-East roots at Newcastle United in 1999.

The County Durham native was taken to the hearts of the Geordie nation as he led them back into European football while playing a brand of football that won the hearts of many a neutral. Robson's controversial sacking in August 2004 is often said to mark the beginning of Newcastle's current problems.

Robson was an England international as a player, where he served Fulham, West Bromwich Albion and briefly for the defunct Vancouver Royals, and featured briefly at the 1962 World Cup.
He had been a cancer sufferer for 18 years, suffering five different bouts of the disease. Last Sunday saw Newcastle United stage a charity game between former English and German internationals from his original 1990 World Cup squads and other special guests in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

"It is with great sadness that it has been announced that Sir Bobby Robson has lost his long and courageous battle with cancer," read a statement released by Robson's family. "He died very peacefully this morning at his home in County Durham with his wife and family beside him.

"Sir Bobby's funeral will be private and for family members only. A thanksgiving service in celebration of Sir Bobby's life will be held at a later date for his many friends and colleagues.

"Lady Robson and the family would very much appreciate it if their privacy could be respected at this difficult time.