Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat has promised to reward the Kelantan football team if they win the Malaysia Cup final.
He told reporters at a Aidilfitri celebration at Kota Darulnaim here that the state government had contributed RM5,000 to the team for making to the semi-final.
The cheque was handed over to the Kelantan Football Association (Kafa) president Tan Sri Annuar Musa last night.Last night, the Kelantan team, The Red Warriors, defeated Perlis 2-0 in the first leg of the Malaysia Cup semi-final.
Nik Abdul Aziz said the government would also built a stadium on a 10 hectare site in Tunjung.
On the action of Kelantan supporters throwing fire-crackers and flying flags of a political party during matches, he said it did not reflect a true sporting spirit and could endanger other people's lives.
Oct 29, 2009
SAY " TAK NAK TO TENNIS "
KELATE TO MARCH ON
The loss of inspirational striker Indera Putera Mahayuddin has left Kelantan coach B.Sathianathan a worried man as he plans for the Malaysia Cup semi-final second leg against Perlis."
Indera Putra was shown the second yellow card last night, meaning he will not be allowed to play in the next game."I am not sure whether the rules say two or three yellow cards. I will have to check the Malaysia Cup rules," he told reporters here Tuesday night.
Kelantan beat Perlis 2-0 in the Malaysia Cup semi-final first leg at Sultan Muhammed IV Stadium here last night.Sathianathan said he was still dissatisfied with the 'Red Warriors' performance and described it as a lucky win."Perlis controlled most of the game in the first half but we were lucky to scroe two goals," he said.
The coach expected Perlis to be better prepared in the second leg as the game would be played at their home turf.Meanwhile, Perlis coach Irfan Bakti said he would plan a more effective strategy to ensure a win for the 'Northern Lions'.He said as the second placed team in the Malaysia Cup, Perlis players should not have panicked last night."The strong support shown by Kelantan fans made me feel like I was in England. It put pressure on my players," he said.(Bernama)
Indera Putra was shown the second yellow card last night, meaning he will not be allowed to play in the next game."I am not sure whether the rules say two or three yellow cards. I will have to check the Malaysia Cup rules," he told reporters here Tuesday night.
Kelantan beat Perlis 2-0 in the Malaysia Cup semi-final first leg at Sultan Muhammed IV Stadium here last night.Sathianathan said he was still dissatisfied with the 'Red Warriors' performance and described it as a lucky win."Perlis controlled most of the game in the first half but we were lucky to scroe two goals," he said.
The coach expected Perlis to be better prepared in the second leg as the game would be played at their home turf.Meanwhile, Perlis coach Irfan Bakti said he would plan a more effective strategy to ensure a win for the 'Northern Lions'.He said as the second placed team in the Malaysia Cup, Perlis players should not have panicked last night."The strong support shown by Kelantan fans made me feel like I was in England. It put pressure on my players," he said.(Bernama)
Oct 25, 2009
SELANGOR KNOCKED OUT
Perlis, Kelantan, Negeri Sembilan and Terengganu advanced to the Malaysia Cup semi-finals after beating their respective opponents in their second leg quarter-final matches Saturday night.
In KANGAR, Perlis beat Johor FC on a 4-1 aggregate at the Stadium Utama tonight.In the match tonight, Perlis beat the visitors 2-0, with the goals coming from Amar Rohidan with a header in the eighth minute and Nizaruddin Yusof provided the second goal in the 48th minute.The match was marred by a fight in the field between two Johor players and a Perlis player in the 59th minute.
Mohd Saiful Sabtu and Sivakumar Munusamy of Johor and Perlis's Azi Shahril Azmi were sent off the pitch by referee R.Krishnan.
In ALOR SETAR, visitors Negeri Sembilan trounced Kuala Muda 3-0 at the Stadium Darul Aman to qualify for the semi-final.The goals were contributed by Mohd Shukor Adan (12th minute), Mohd Zakuan Adha (28th minute penalty) and Shahurain Abu Samah (36th minute).
At the Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium in Kota Baharu, Kelantan thrashed KL Plus 3-0 in front of their 20,000 die-hard supporters.The 'Red Warriors' three goals were scored by Indra Putra Mahyuddin (13th) and two goals by Mohd Norfarhan Mohamad (75th and 78th).With the home win, Kelantan advanced to the semi final with a 4-1 aggregate after a 1-1 draw in their first-leg match.Meanwhile, Terengganu edged Selangor 5-4 in a penalty shootout after they were tied on a 2-2 aggregate in their second leg quarter-final match.
Terengganu's Abdul Manaf Mamat opened scoring in the 12th minute but in the 62nd minute, Selangor drew level through defender D.Surendran.The 1-1 draw (2-2 aggregate) remained till the end of regular time and the 30-minute extra time which forced the match into a penalty shootout.Terengganu won the penalty shootout 5-4.-- BERNAMA
In KANGAR, Perlis beat Johor FC on a 4-1 aggregate at the Stadium Utama tonight.In the match tonight, Perlis beat the visitors 2-0, with the goals coming from Amar Rohidan with a header in the eighth minute and Nizaruddin Yusof provided the second goal in the 48th minute.The match was marred by a fight in the field between two Johor players and a Perlis player in the 59th minute.
Mohd Saiful Sabtu and Sivakumar Munusamy of Johor and Perlis's Azi Shahril Azmi were sent off the pitch by referee R.Krishnan.
In ALOR SETAR, visitors Negeri Sembilan trounced Kuala Muda 3-0 at the Stadium Darul Aman to qualify for the semi-final.The goals were contributed by Mohd Shukor Adan (12th minute), Mohd Zakuan Adha (28th minute penalty) and Shahurain Abu Samah (36th minute).
At the Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium in Kota Baharu, Kelantan thrashed KL Plus 3-0 in front of their 20,000 die-hard supporters.The 'Red Warriors' three goals were scored by Indra Putra Mahyuddin (13th) and two goals by Mohd Norfarhan Mohamad (75th and 78th).With the home win, Kelantan advanced to the semi final with a 4-1 aggregate after a 1-1 draw in their first-leg match.Meanwhile, Terengganu edged Selangor 5-4 in a penalty shootout after they were tied on a 2-2 aggregate in their second leg quarter-final match.
Terengganu's Abdul Manaf Mamat opened scoring in the 12th minute but in the 62nd minute, Selangor drew level through defender D.Surendran.The 1-1 draw (2-2 aggregate) remained till the end of regular time and the 30-minute extra time which forced the match into a penalty shootout.Terengganu won the penalty shootout 5-4.-- BERNAMA
Oct 22, 2009
REST IN PEACE PUAN SRI JOANNE
I am saddened and shocked by the passing of my friend Ms. Joanne Ong, whom I refer to as "Puan Sri" since 1996. She passed away an hour ago at the Subang Jaya Medical Center after battling with leukemia for close to three months.
The late Joanne, who was my colleague in FAM, was then employed by TicketAccess and in 2006 launched her very own ticketing company called J&A Events and managed TicketPro Malaysia office. From providing tickets for Malaysian Open, she managed the Penang Jazz Festival and the latest Manchester United Tour to Malaysia.
After the United tour to Malaysia, Joanne was admitted to SJMC and diagnosed with leukemia. She was started on chemotherapy drugs. Two weeks ago, the doctors tried getting a match to do a bone-marrow transplant but failed.
I saw her when she was admitted and was planning another visit this Saturday, but God had a better plan and place for her.
It is truly sad, and as my good friend San Boon Wah rightly put it, it is great loss to all of us. May her soul rest in peace.
More updates later.
The late Joanne, who was my colleague in FAM, was then employed by TicketAccess and in 2006 launched her very own ticketing company called J&A Events and managed TicketPro Malaysia office. From providing tickets for Malaysian Open, she managed the Penang Jazz Festival and the latest Manchester United Tour to Malaysia.
After the United tour to Malaysia, Joanne was admitted to SJMC and diagnosed with leukemia. She was started on chemotherapy drugs. Two weeks ago, the doctors tried getting a match to do a bone-marrow transplant but failed.
I saw her when she was admitted and was planning another visit this Saturday, but God had a better plan and place for her.
It is truly sad, and as my good friend San Boon Wah rightly put it, it is great loss to all of us. May her soul rest in peace.
More updates later.
Oct 20, 2009
AZRAAI MOVES ON TO FAM
FORMER Kedah coach Azraai Khor who was once a leading candidate as national coach received the offer letter as Under-21 head coach yesterday. Azraai will begin the new journey in FAM on November 1,2009.
The Under-21 side is expected to be fielded in the Premier League next season, but will this successful coach in the local scene have the support of the fellow coaches. Life can be different for coaches who work with the national association, many go with the hope that changes can be done and much later they realise it is not the same. They realise that it is not easy to work in a national association.
Coaches put a plan and financial budget and then they are told they don't have the money, of course if you are a coach, and if you say "mana beli kasut itu cantik, your tie is beautiful and your looking sharp in that armani suit," then your financial needs are approved and maybe your life will be easier.
But if you go against the powers of the corridors, then Azraai you are looking at a short lived tenure in FAM. I will not be suprise coach, if next November you tell me "I had enough, its time to move"
For now enjoy the moment, the best Char Keuy Teow and Banana Leaf in Kelana Jaya awaits you. If you need some advise and help, the General Secretary is the man to see. Remember he only carries out instructions given by the council and exco.,
All the best coach.
The Under-21 side is expected to be fielded in the Premier League next season, but will this successful coach in the local scene have the support of the fellow coaches. Life can be different for coaches who work with the national association, many go with the hope that changes can be done and much later they realise it is not the same. They realise that it is not easy to work in a national association.
Coaches put a plan and financial budget and then they are told they don't have the money, of course if you are a coach, and if you say "mana beli kasut itu cantik, your tie is beautiful and your looking sharp in that armani suit," then your financial needs are approved and maybe your life will be easier.
But if you go against the powers of the corridors, then Azraai you are looking at a short lived tenure in FAM. I will not be suprise coach, if next November you tell me "I had enough, its time to move"
For now enjoy the moment, the best Char Keuy Teow and Banana Leaf in Kelana Jaya awaits you. If you need some advise and help, the General Secretary is the man to see. Remember he only carries out instructions given by the council and exco.,
All the best coach.
Oct 15, 2009
HAPPY DEEPAVALI
JAIHO wishes all it's readers and friends a blessed and holy deepavali. May god bless you and your beloved family.
AZRAAI KHOR RESIGNS
KEDAH coach Azraai Khor submitted his letter of resignation as team coach, to Dr Hamdan a couple of minutes ago. Azraai is one of the most succesful coaches in the local scene, guided Kedah to a back to back double treable, could not accept the way the team has been treated.Two weeks ago thousands of Kedah fans were not allowed into the stadium and only 2000 tickets were printed. The way things has been happening in KAFA as though they demanded Azraai to resign.
JAIHO salutes Azraai's values and pricipals, it's time to move on. The grapevine has it that Azraai could be taking the national Under-21 team that is to be featured in the MSL next year. Let's wait and see .
MSL IN CRISIS
IS Malaysian Super League (MSL) in a crisis that is beyond any help? It is learnt from the corridors of power within FAM that Sarawak, Malacca, Penang, UPB My Team,Police and Armed Forces apparently have decided to withdraw for the league next year and it has all to do with financial constraits.
"Many teams have not deposited the money, which only means that they dont have the money. It is a tough situation, we just have to wait and see the outcome" said an FAM official.
Six states owned almost RM 1 million just on salaries both to players and coaches, that excludes all payments to the stadium and cost of managing the team.
This is in addition to the whopping RM6,291,481 owed by State FAs to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). Malacca top the list of errant employers, owing players and coaches RM286,378.99.
All registration is expected to be submitted to the competitions committee who will then make the necessary recommendations to the council.
"Many teams have not deposited the money, which only means that they dont have the money. It is a tough situation, we just have to wait and see the outcome" said an FAM official.
Six states owned almost RM 1 million just on salaries both to players and coaches, that excludes all payments to the stadium and cost of managing the team.
This is in addition to the whopping RM6,291,481 owed by State FAs to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). Malacca top the list of errant employers, owing players and coaches RM286,378.99.
Perak are second with RM272,000, followed by Penang (RM46,216.25), Kelantan (RM63,400) and Sarawak (RM48,500). Negri Sembilan, meanwhile, have yet to settle their dues to former Slovakian import Marian Juhas totalling US$60,500 (RM214,321).
Juhas played for Slovakian Super League club FC Kosice and Perak before plying his trade with the Deers last season.
Perak, Penang and Kelantan played in the Super League this season while Malacca and Sarawak are in the Premier League. Perak still owe skipper S. Subramaniam two months wages totalling RM12,000.
The Kinta Valley side are also struggling to pay their former players, including Hardi Jaafar (RM28,000). Hardi now plays for Super League champions Selangor. All teams must clear all outstanding payments (wages and EPF), place a deposit of RM150,000 and at least RM2.5 million in their accounts.
"It is not easy for teams to come out with that amount of money, but we have no choice to implement these conditions. Otherwise football will always be in trouble and we will end up saving the state teams."added the high ranking official.All registration is expected to be submitted to the competitions committee who will then make the necessary recommendations to the council.
Oct 14, 2009
ABUJA HERE WE COME ..
WINDSOR JOHN Paul leaves for Nigeria tonight as the FIFA General Co-ordinator for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. It is not suprising that FIFA has appointed Windsor to be based in Abuja, which will host the finals as well.Nigeria's capital, Abuja enjoys a rare blend of natural and modern monuments uncommon in the continent's sub region. Rich in tourism and infrastructure, Abuja has become a safe haven for foreign tourists and expatriates.
Abuja replaced Lagos as Nigeria's federal capital on 12 December 1991 and is a uniquely planned city. The 2006 census put the population of the territory at 778,567. Abuja's geography is defined by Aso Rock, with the Presidential complex, National Assembly, Supreme Court and much of the town extending to south of the monolith. ‘ASO' means ‘victorious', just as ‘Asokoro' means ‘victorious people'.
In addition to being a major governmental centre, Abuja is the headquarters of the Economic Community of West Africa States, ECOWAS; it also house the regional headquarters of OPEC. As a result, Abuja and the surrounding area have experienced a huge population growth.
The national Mosque and national Christian centre are located opposite each other on either side of independence Avenue.
Abuja will host Group A matches which will see Nigeria, Germany, Honduras, Argentina vying for two spots while Group B match between Switzerland and Brazil will also be held there.
Windsor who resigned as the FIFA Development Officer last month is expected to be the man in charge at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Malaysia at this point in time, with the current system will not be able to be there, but at least a Kedah born, from a simple community is keeping the Malaysian flag flying in Abuja.
The other Malaysian that will be involved in Nigeria, is our reknown referree Sukhddin Salleh, who represents the Asian Zone. Sukhddin who is among the FIFA elite referees might see action in South Africa.
click here to read more on the FIFA U17 World Cup.
Oct 13, 2009
370 ATHLETES AND 120 OFFICIALS
The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) are expected to send a contingent comprising 370 athletes and 120 officials for the Laos SEA Games, held from Dec 9-18.
OCM Honorary secretary Datuk Sieh Kok Chi said the list by numbers had already been sent to the Laos SEA Games Technical committee recently while the final name list would be send on Oct 26.
"The smaller number of athletes is due to Malaysia athletes competing in only 21 of the 25 sports contested," Kok Chi told Bernama here on Tuesday.
Malaysian athletes would feature in swimming, diving, archery, athletics, badminton, snooker & billiard, boxing, cycling, football, golf, judo, karate, silat, petanque, sepaktakraw, shooting, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, weightlifting and wushu.
Malaysia are not sending athletes for soft tennis, wrestling, muay thai and shuttlecock juggling.
For the record, Malaysia sent 734 athletes to the 2007 Korat SEA Games in Thailand, 403 to the 2005 Manila Games in the Philippines, 349 to Vietnam (2003), and fielded 569 athletes when Kuala Lumpur hosted the games in 2001.
Kok Chi said the final list of athletes would be known after a Chef-de-Mission meeting in Vientiane on Oct 26 for all participating countries, including Timor Leste.
Meanwhile, the Laos SEA Games website today said more than 4,200 athletes from 10 Asean countries are expected to participate in the games that offers 398 gold medals in 25 sports.
SEA Games Technical committee vice chairman, Kasem Inthara said Laos as the host, would be fielding the biggest contingent, comprising 661 athletes, followed by Thailand (637) and Vietnam (600).
"The final number of athletes from each nation will be announced on Oct 26," said Inthara who confirmed that except for Timor Leste, the rest - Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos had already submitted the list of athletes, by numbers.
He said although the countries had sent the numbers to the committee, the confirmed final number and their names would only be known at the end of the month.
-- BERNAMA
OCM Honorary secretary Datuk Sieh Kok Chi said the list by numbers had already been sent to the Laos SEA Games Technical committee recently while the final name list would be send on Oct 26.
"The smaller number of athletes is due to Malaysia athletes competing in only 21 of the 25 sports contested," Kok Chi told Bernama here on Tuesday.
Malaysian athletes would feature in swimming, diving, archery, athletics, badminton, snooker & billiard, boxing, cycling, football, golf, judo, karate, silat, petanque, sepaktakraw, shooting, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, weightlifting and wushu.
Malaysia are not sending athletes for soft tennis, wrestling, muay thai and shuttlecock juggling.
For the record, Malaysia sent 734 athletes to the 2007 Korat SEA Games in Thailand, 403 to the 2005 Manila Games in the Philippines, 349 to Vietnam (2003), and fielded 569 athletes when Kuala Lumpur hosted the games in 2001.
Kok Chi said the final list of athletes would be known after a Chef-de-Mission meeting in Vientiane on Oct 26 for all participating countries, including Timor Leste.
Meanwhile, the Laos SEA Games website today said more than 4,200 athletes from 10 Asean countries are expected to participate in the games that offers 398 gold medals in 25 sports.
SEA Games Technical committee vice chairman, Kasem Inthara said Laos as the host, would be fielding the biggest contingent, comprising 661 athletes, followed by Thailand (637) and Vietnam (600).
"The final number of athletes from each nation will be announced on Oct 26," said Inthara who confirmed that except for Timor Leste, the rest - Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos had already submitted the list of athletes, by numbers.
He said although the countries had sent the numbers to the committee, the confirmed final number and their names would only be known at the end of the month.
-- BERNAMA
ANOTHER COUNCIL ?
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has proposed to set up a council to resolve the Malaysian Professional Golfers' Association (MPGA) issue.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the formation of the council was aimed at helping local professional golfers who are members of MPGA which was suspended by Sports Commissioner Datuk Nik Mahmud Nik Yusof last year and placed under an Ad-hoc Committee headed by Datuk Thomas Lee.
"The job of the council will be specifically to organise tournaments for the professionals. As for the status of the association, it is still beleaguered with problems under the law.
"We will leave it to the ad-hoc committee to find a solution. But setting up the council is important because we cannot wait for the court cases to be over," he told reporters after opening a forum "The Way Forward" with professional golfers and those involved in the golf profession, at the International Youth Centre in Cheras here on Tuesday.
He added that forming a new association for professional golfers would take a long time.
"I seek a little understanding and confidence from the players and allow the ministry to carry out its responsibility. The ministry will manage the council for an interim period before a proper association can handle its matters," said Ahmad Shabery.
He added that the setting up of the council must however, get the blessing of the professional players and the ad-hoc committee.
According to Ahmad Shabery, who himself is an avid golfer, the council would be represented by three professional players, three vocational pros, golf club owner (1), golf industry (1), media (1), government (2) and corporate (2).
"The ministry will allocate RM500,000 for the council to start operations and it will be my 'baby'. I do not know the history of MPGA and I do not want any cronies to be involved.
"We also need to set up an academy to determine the professional status of a golfer. We will engage the services of an experienced man to handle it. I have also asked RM1 million allocation for the academy," he said.
Ahmad Shabery said his has set a December dateline for the council to draft a programme and calendar of activities.
"If possible, we want to organise at least two tournaments a month, offering RM300,000 as prize money. We do not want to organise tournaments that offer RM30,000 or RM50,000...it will be embarrassing," he said.
Meanwhile Thomas Lee said a meeting would be held soon with the players.
The council which was proposed by the minister would be the route map for us to enhance our professionalism in the golf industry. With the minister's announcement, the hard work begins now. We will meet again next week to discuss the details," he said - Bernama
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the formation of the council was aimed at helping local professional golfers who are members of MPGA which was suspended by Sports Commissioner Datuk Nik Mahmud Nik Yusof last year and placed under an Ad-hoc Committee headed by Datuk Thomas Lee.
"The job of the council will be specifically to organise tournaments for the professionals. As for the status of the association, it is still beleaguered with problems under the law.
"We will leave it to the ad-hoc committee to find a solution. But setting up the council is important because we cannot wait for the court cases to be over," he told reporters after opening a forum "The Way Forward" with professional golfers and those involved in the golf profession, at the International Youth Centre in Cheras here on Tuesday.
He added that forming a new association for professional golfers would take a long time.
"I seek a little understanding and confidence from the players and allow the ministry to carry out its responsibility. The ministry will manage the council for an interim period before a proper association can handle its matters," said Ahmad Shabery.
He added that the setting up of the council must however, get the blessing of the professional players and the ad-hoc committee.
According to Ahmad Shabery, who himself is an avid golfer, the council would be represented by three professional players, three vocational pros, golf club owner (1), golf industry (1), media (1), government (2) and corporate (2).
"The ministry will allocate RM500,000 for the council to start operations and it will be my 'baby'. I do not know the history of MPGA and I do not want any cronies to be involved.
"We also need to set up an academy to determine the professional status of a golfer. We will engage the services of an experienced man to handle it. I have also asked RM1 million allocation for the academy," he said.
Ahmad Shabery said his has set a December dateline for the council to draft a programme and calendar of activities.
"If possible, we want to organise at least two tournaments a month, offering RM300,000 as prize money. We do not want to organise tournaments that offer RM30,000 or RM50,000...it will be embarrassing," he said.
Meanwhile Thomas Lee said a meeting would be held soon with the players.
The council which was proposed by the minister would be the route map for us to enhance our professionalism in the golf industry. With the minister's announcement, the hard work begins now. We will meet again next week to discuss the details," he said - Bernama
Oct 12, 2009
GOOD DECISION
The decision of the Sarawak Football Association (FA) to withdraw from the national football arena for three years beginning next season is the best move to prevent the association from incurring more debt which now stands at RM3 million since 1995.
Sarawak FA secretary Mohd Abu Bakar Marzuki said although some people described the decision as bringing down the integrity of Sarawak football and giving a bleak future for the sport in the state, it was an appropriate decision before things became worse for the association.
"The Sarawak team is like a leaking ship, and we have to drop anchor to repair the leak because we know that we will sink if we go on," he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama, here.
He said the Sarawak FA would hold a meeting with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) on Monday to inform the parent body about Sarawak's withdrawal in the league organised by the FAM next season.
Abu Bakar said the Sarawak FA had its own plans with the focus on the club championship at the division level as well as the Sarawak Cup.
The Sarawak FA, with the cooperation of the State Ministry of Social Development and Urbanisation, has a five-year development plan for football and the focus is on the development at the school level up to the 18-year-old youths.
"The perception that we will hang our boots when we withdraw is not correct because we will continue to concentrate on the development of football at the division and local club levels," he said.
In addition, Abu Bakar said the development of the Sarawak team would also go on and the Sarawak FA had already received support from football clubs in West Australia which were willing to give a chance to local players to train there.
He said Sarawak also planned to take part in friendly matches if there were offers from clubs in the peninsula or Singapore.
However, he said the Sarawak FA was prepared to shorten the withdrawal from FAM tournaments if there were sponsors who were willing to help the FA in settling its debts.
Sarawak FA secretary Mohd Abu Bakar Marzuki said although some people described the decision as bringing down the integrity of Sarawak football and giving a bleak future for the sport in the state, it was an appropriate decision before things became worse for the association.
"The Sarawak team is like a leaking ship, and we have to drop anchor to repair the leak because we know that we will sink if we go on," he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama, here.
He said the Sarawak FA would hold a meeting with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) on Monday to inform the parent body about Sarawak's withdrawal in the league organised by the FAM next season.
Abu Bakar said the Sarawak FA had its own plans with the focus on the club championship at the division level as well as the Sarawak Cup.
The Sarawak FA, with the cooperation of the State Ministry of Social Development and Urbanisation, has a five-year development plan for football and the focus is on the development at the school level up to the 18-year-old youths.
"The perception that we will hang our boots when we withdraw is not correct because we will continue to concentrate on the development of football at the division and local club levels," he said.
In addition, Abu Bakar said the development of the Sarawak team would also go on and the Sarawak FA had already received support from football clubs in West Australia which were willing to give a chance to local players to train there.
He said Sarawak also planned to take part in friendly matches if there were offers from clubs in the peninsula or Singapore.
However, he said the Sarawak FA was prepared to shorten the withdrawal from FAM tournaments if there were sponsors who were willing to help the FA in settling its debts.
UPDATE SELANGOR HOCKEY LEAGUE
A total of 6 matches were played in week 2 of the Selangor Hockey ending Sunday. In the midweek Division 2 game between Selangor Polis Veteran & JUPEM, it was a closely fought battle with JUPEM edging out as 3-2 victors.
On Saturday Division 1 matches, JLJ, after their opening game hiccup, got back on the winning side trashing Selangor Sikh Association 9-0. Mohd Hanip proved to be lethal both in Penalty corner conversions as he got his hat-trick thru them, and as he raised his tally to four goals through a field goal in the 55th minute. Other scorers were Mohd Szuhairi 33rd & 37th minute Mohd Rahmie 37th, Farish 53rd & Nor Fadzeu adding the 9th goal on 70th minute.
OLAK got on to a winning streak as they came from behind to snatch a victory in a closely fought match against MBPJ. OLAK being 2 goals down at one point came back to win 3-2 and collect all 3 points. MBPJ started off strongly taking control of the match and deservedly went ahead on the 7th with a well taken field goal by Abdul Jalil.
Umpire Selvakumar and veteran Umpire K.Thillynathan, kept a tight control of the match, had flashed a total of 7 cards (4 Green & 3 yellow) in this fast paced, exciting tactical match that had the crowd on the edge of their seats.
Leading at half time MBPJ doubled their lead as Abdul Jalil once again converted a field goal to give MBPJ a 2-0 lead on the 42nd minute. OLAK battled back as Pragesh Ramachandran slammed in a well executed flowing move on the 49th minute. Both teams continued to attack each other’s goal mouth and on the 52nd minute Umpire Selvakumar awarded a penalty stroke to OLAK after a deliberate infringement by the MBPJ keeper Mohd Razali. Nur Hrsikesa was up to the task as he coolly converted the stroke to equalise the game. MBPJ paid the price when on the 62nd minute they were dealt a double blow. MBPJ keeper Mohd Razali limped out of the match injured and his replacement Abdul Rahman, had no chance to save the winning goal in the next attack by OLAK as Mohd Noor Khairul slammed in the winner from an acute angle to collect all 3 points for OLAK in the 62nd minute.
Oct 9, 2009
MALAYSIA BOLEH
HOW much does it cost to host an International Tennis Event in Malaysia? Below are some of the breakdown, I was shocked when I saw the proposal and KPI's report submitted to the relevant agency. Some excellent figures have been given in the report, nevertheless take your time to read and make your own conclusion. Have a great weekend.
REPORT TO KEMENTERIAN BELIA DAN SUKAN
ON DEVELOPING KPI'S / KPTS
FOR xxxxxx Sdn Bhd on a Tennis Tournament.
Financial Impact - Hosting Expenses (Outgoing) RM 25, 650,000 (USD 7,126,000)
* Prize Money - USD 925,0000
* Rights & Licence Fee - USD 1,500,000
* Levy and Officiating - USD 290,000
* Event Cost (Inc TV) - USD 2,000,000
INCOMING - RM 26,000,000 (USD 7,222,222)
Government - RM 16 Million
Sponsors Obtained by Sdn Bhd - RM 10 Million
Mitigating Risk Factors : Participation of Tennis Players :
Liability Insurance - USD 5 Million
Appearance fees (Subject to 25 % to 30 % increase depending upon who the players are) -
USD 2.5 Million
Event Frequency - Every September from 2008 - 2011
Local Sports Development - Tournaments to be held in Selangor, Johor, Penang, Kedah , KL
REPORT TO KEMENTERIAN BELIA DAN SUKAN
ON DEVELOPING KPI'S / KPTS
FOR xxxxxx Sdn Bhd on a Tennis Tournament.
Financial Impact - Hosting Expenses (Outgoing) RM 25, 650,000 (USD 7,126,000)
* Prize Money - USD 925,0000
* Rights & Licence Fee - USD 1,500,000
* Levy and Officiating - USD 290,000
* Event Cost (Inc TV) - USD 2,000,000
INCOMING - RM 26,000,000 (USD 7,222,222)
Government - RM 16 Million
Sponsors Obtained by Sdn Bhd - RM 10 Million
Mitigating Risk Factors : Participation of Tennis Players :
Liability Insurance - USD 5 Million
Appearance fees (Subject to 25 % to 30 % increase depending upon who the players are) -
USD 2.5 Million
Event Frequency - Every September from 2008 - 2011
Local Sports Development - Tournaments to be held in Selangor, Johor, Penang, Kedah , KL
Malaysia 0 Laos 6 ..
HOW low can we go ? Malaysia U16 squad was humiliated 6-0 by Laos on Tuesday at the AFC U-16 qualifiers at McKellar Park in Canberra. Read here, this is indeed very embrassing for FAM and the country. Since when Laos started hammering Malaysia with such scoreline. I wonder what will FAM do now and I am quite puzzle that the FAM technical committee has not come up with concrete development plan. FAM what's happening ? Maybe they are waiting for another round of embrassement from Australia on October 10, then we will hear about speacial task force, KPI's being mentioned etc. It is a sad day !
Oct 8, 2009
SATHIA TO FIELD RESERVES
Kelantan will take their foot off the pedal in their remaining two Malaysia Cup Group E matches.
The Red Warriors have taken an unassailable lead in the group to qualify for the quarter-finals. And coach B. Sathianathan said that he would put the reserves to test against defending champions Kedah in Alor Setar on Saturday and against Armed Forces at home on Tuesday.
“The senior players will take a break as they have accomplished the mission in the group competition,” said Sathianathan from Kota Baru yesterday.
The former national coach added that it was now for the untested players to make the best of the opportunities to prove their worth.
“I want them to show me why they should be in the first team. If they can live up to expectations, they will get into my plans for the knockout stage,” said Sathianathan.
Kelantan kept intact their 100% win record in the group with a 2-1 victory over Penang 2-1 at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru two days ago.
The Red Warriors had beaten Penang (2-1), Kedah (1-0) and Forces (2-1) and with 12 points after four matches, they have opened an eight-point lead over Kedah and Penang. Forces are at the bottom of the table on two points.
In the quarter-final match-up, Kelantan will play against the winners of Group A, which now has KL Plus and Perlis in the battle to take the top spot. KL Plus now have 10 points – one point more than Perlis. The quarter-final first-leg matches are scheduled for Oct 20.
“We want to have the best men available for the quarter-finals. Therefore we won’t take the chances and risk injury or suspensions in this crucial stage of the competition,” said Sathianathan, who took over the Kelantan hot-seat after Englishman Peter Butler quit last month.
Among the senior hands in the squad are Indra Putra Mahayuddin, Khalid Jamlus, Mohd Nor Farhan Mohd, Che Hishamuddin Hasam, Halim Napi, Azlan Ahmad and Nazrul Erwan Makmor. THE STAR
Malaysia finish behind Laos
Malaysia finished as the runners-up to hosts Laos on goal d ifference in a four-nation pre-SEA Games football tournament, which ended in Vientiane on Tuesday.
Malaysia, represented by players from the Harimau Muda (Under-19) and national Under-18 squads under coach Ong Kim Swee, had five points from a win and two draws.
Thailand finished third on four points while Vietnam anchored the table on one point.
In the opening game, Malaysia held Thailand 2-2 before chalking up a 3-1 win over Vietnam and playing Laos to a 1-1 draw.
Six of the players in the team will feature in the tournament proper for Under-23 squads in Laos from Dec 8-19.
They are Ahmad Shakir Ali, K. Gurusamy, Mohd Faizal, Mahali Jasuli, Mohd Muslim and Mohd Fandi Othman.
SPORTS IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS TO BE MORE DYNAMIC
Sports development in tertiary institutions will be more dynamic with the approval of the Sports Development Policy for Tertiary Institutions by the Cabinet recently, said Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said the policy would provide the catalyst for sports development and excellence in the country with at least 30 per cent of the national athletes produced by institutions of higher learning.
"This is a comprehensive policy. Its creation is seen to be capable of balancing between the sports achievement and academic performance of athletes from the universities. It is also capable of developing a sports culture among undergraduates," he told reporters, here Wednesday.
He said the policy was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Sports Development chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on Sept 8.
The policy was launched Wednesday night at the Higher Education Ministry's Sports Excellence Night 2009 at the Putrajaya International Convention Center (PICC).
Mohamed Khaled said the policy would focus on seven clusters, namely the Sports Enculturation Programme; Sports Infrastructure Development Programme; Sports Excellence Centre Development Programme; Sports Excellence, Welfare, Incentives and Research Scheme (SKIPS); Athletes' Academic Development Programme; Career Promotion and Network Programme; and Development Programme for Sports Studies at Tertiary Institutions.
The Minister said various programmes had been drawn up to implement the inputs for each cluster.
"Under the SKIPS initiative, for example, research and development (R&D) activities in the field of sports would continue to be emphasised.
"Since 2007, the (Higher Education) Ministry had spent about RM550,000 on 21 researchers and for this year, a RM200,000 grant would be given to each sport researcher. I hope with the increased grants, more research could be made to improve the quality of sports in the country," he said.
-- BERNAMA
He said the policy would provide the catalyst for sports development and excellence in the country with at least 30 per cent of the national athletes produced by institutions of higher learning.
"This is a comprehensive policy. Its creation is seen to be capable of balancing between the sports achievement and academic performance of athletes from the universities. It is also capable of developing a sports culture among undergraduates," he told reporters, here Wednesday.
He said the policy was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Sports Development chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on Sept 8.
The policy was launched Wednesday night at the Higher Education Ministry's Sports Excellence Night 2009 at the Putrajaya International Convention Center (PICC).
Mohamed Khaled said the policy would focus on seven clusters, namely the Sports Enculturation Programme; Sports Infrastructure Development Programme; Sports Excellence Centre Development Programme; Sports Excellence, Welfare, Incentives and Research Scheme (SKIPS); Athletes' Academic Development Programme; Career Promotion and Network Programme; and Development Programme for Sports Studies at Tertiary Institutions.
The Minister said various programmes had been drawn up to implement the inputs for each cluster.
"Under the SKIPS initiative, for example, research and development (R&D) activities in the field of sports would continue to be emphasised.
"Since 2007, the (Higher Education) Ministry had spent about RM550,000 on 21 researchers and for this year, a RM200,000 grant would be given to each sport researcher. I hope with the increased grants, more research could be made to improve the quality of sports in the country," he said.
-- BERNAMA
Oct 7, 2009
DOLLAH STILL UNCONSCIOUS
FORMER Malaysia Cup star Dollah Kassim is still in critical condition after suffering a heart attack at Sunday's Sultan of Selangor Cup veterans game.A spokesperson for Tan Tock Seng Hospital said the 60-year-old remains unconscious, but his condition 'has not deteriorated yet'.
Dollah, one of Singapore's most recognisable football legends, collapsed at half time after playing just 10 minutes of the first half for a Singapore Veterans side.
He underwent an emergency angioplasty on Sunday night to clear up a blocked artery leading to his heart.
Families and friends, including his son and daughter, are currently keeping vigil at the hospital.
Said Dollah's former national teammate, Quah Kim Song, who is also the director of competitions at the Football Association of Singapore (FAS): 'The next 24 hours will be very telling. We are all praying for him.' - nst singapore
THE RED WARRIORS THROUGH TO Q-FINAL
Kelantan are the first team to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Malaysia Cup competition.
The Red Warriors defeated Penang 2-1 at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru last night to take an unassailable lead in Group E with maximum points from four matches.
Former national player Khalid Jamlus scored the first goal for Kelantan in the 43rd minute and current international Indra Putra Mahayuddin netted the winner in the 80th minute. Penang got their goal through S. Chanthuru in the 65th minute.
Kelantan’s remaining two matches in the group are against defending champions Kedah and Armed Forces
Read Eric Samuel's report here
The Red Warriors defeated Penang 2-1 at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru last night to take an unassailable lead in Group E with maximum points from four matches.
Former national player Khalid Jamlus scored the first goal for Kelantan in the 43rd minute and current international Indra Putra Mahayuddin netted the winner in the 80th minute. Penang got their goal through S. Chanthuru in the 65th minute.
Kelantan’s remaining two matches in the group are against defending champions Kedah and Armed Forces
Read Eric Samuel's report here
RM 800 MILLION FOR EPL RIGHTS .. WOW
Astro All Asia Networks plc has won the bid for the rights to broadcast the Barclays Premier League (BPL) for the next three seasons for about RM800mil, sources told StarBiz.
The vendor of the BPL rights is Britain-based Football Association Premier League (FAPL).
Over the last few weeks, a bidding war had erupted for the much-sought-after BPL rights, with Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) and ESPN STAR Sports believed to have been involved.
Despite emerging victorious, Astro will still have to grapple with how it is going to recoup the high fees it is paying for the rights, believed to be at least 50% more than what it had paid previously.
The cost of BPL content makes up about a third of Astro’s total content cost and is not profit generating in itself. But BPL is still a major pull factor for Astro’s Malaysian subscribers.
An analyst said there was a limit to how much Astro could raise prices for its sports package as it would not want to risk losing customers. That means that its profit margins may take a hit.
On the other hand, Astro would no longer have to buy BPL content from intermediary ESPN STAR Sports, which was the previous successful bidder.
Buying the rights from ESPN also involved some unfavourable terms, where most of the revenue comes from advertisements shown during intervals of BPL games belonged to ESPN.
“If Astro is able to keep those ad revenues, this should help it stem the margin erosion,” the analyst added.
Astro is also likely to produce the entire BPL show – which includes talk shows and match analysis – now that it owns the rights directly. Previously, ESPN had done so and had factored that into its price to Astro.
It is believed that TM had sought to buy the BPL content to make its planned broadband TV service attractive.
However, it is unlikely TM will have had its infrastructure for broadband TV up and running in time for the next BPL season. Hence, if it had won the BPL bid, TM might have had to resort to re-selling the BPL content, possibly to Astro.
Astro’s established network and subscriber base is another factor that FAPL is likely to have considered when awarding the bid. - TH E STAR
The vendor of the BPL rights is Britain-based Football Association Premier League (FAPL).
Over the last few weeks, a bidding war had erupted for the much-sought-after BPL rights, with Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) and ESPN STAR Sports believed to have been involved.
Despite emerging victorious, Astro will still have to grapple with how it is going to recoup the high fees it is paying for the rights, believed to be at least 50% more than what it had paid previously.
The cost of BPL content makes up about a third of Astro’s total content cost and is not profit generating in itself. But BPL is still a major pull factor for Astro’s Malaysian subscribers.
An analyst said there was a limit to how much Astro could raise prices for its sports package as it would not want to risk losing customers. That means that its profit margins may take a hit.
On the other hand, Astro would no longer have to buy BPL content from intermediary ESPN STAR Sports, which was the previous successful bidder.
Buying the rights from ESPN also involved some unfavourable terms, where most of the revenue comes from advertisements shown during intervals of BPL games belonged to ESPN.
“If Astro is able to keep those ad revenues, this should help it stem the margin erosion,” the analyst added.
Astro is also likely to produce the entire BPL show – which includes talk shows and match analysis – now that it owns the rights directly. Previously, ESPN had done so and had factored that into its price to Astro.
It is believed that TM had sought to buy the BPL content to make its planned broadband TV service attractive.
However, it is unlikely TM will have had its infrastructure for broadband TV up and running in time for the next BPL season. Hence, if it had won the BPL bid, TM might have had to resort to re-selling the BPL content, possibly to Astro.
Astro’s established network and subscriber base is another factor that FAPL is likely to have considered when awarding the bid. - TH E STAR
Oct 2, 2009
A GOOD START, BUT WILL THEY COME ?
ASIA Sports Conference will be held in Kuala Lumpur from November 23-25th, click here for details. They have lined up some good speakers, even though I feel some of the Malaysians who have done well at the International scene should have been given an opportunity. Maybe it's never to late to include Datuk Sri Paul Mony Samuel, Datuk Peter Velappan and Windsor John in this event which is of International Status. Personally I think no one in Asia would come close to these people. They experiences in FIFA and the World Cup is beyond explanation.
Former Malay Mail editor Datuk Fauzi Omar should also be included in the panel to discuss topics on Media and Sports, former NST Sports Editor Lazarus Rokk who is also a FIFA instructur and George Das former AIPS General Secretary can be considered to share their valuable experiences.
ASIA SPORTS 2009 boasts an exciting line-up of speakers including:
Former Malay Mail editor Datuk Fauzi Omar should also be included in the panel to discuss topics on Media and Sports, former NST Sports Editor Lazarus Rokk who is also a FIFA instructur and George Das former AIPS General Secretary can be considered to share their valuable experiences.
ASIA SPORTS 2009 boasts an exciting line-up of speakers including:
HRH Prince Tunku Imran
IOC Member
President of the Olympic Council of Malaysia
Mohamed bin Hammam
President, Asian Football Confederation
Executive Committee Member, FIFA
Yong-Suk Shin
Vice-President of the Olympic Council of Asia
External Affairs Chairman, 2014 Incheon Asian Games Organising Committee
Y.Bhg. Dato' Nik Mahmud bin Nik Yusof
Sports Commissioner, Malaysian Ministry of Youth and Sports
David Tyler
Managing Director Business Affairs, TEAM Marketing
Ms Becky Wang
Deputy General Secretary and Director of International Relations Department, Chinese Football Association
Michael Palmer, MP
Head - Sports and Media, Partner - Civil and Commercial Litigation, Harry Elias Partnership
Executive Board Member of the Singapore Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee
David Becker
Head of Legal, International Cricket Council
Philip Gibson
Director, Pico Sport
Hass Aminian
Director of Business Development, SPORTFIVE Asia
Shoto Zhu
Founder and President, OCEANS Marketing
Sundar Raman
Chief Operating Officer, Indian Premier League
Chief Executive Officer, Champions League T20
Ms Hyun-Jung Lee
Member, International Relations Committee, Olympic Council of Asia
Ms Susan Ho
Head Global Brand Development, Standard Chartered Bank
Rob Abernethy
Head of AFC Asian Cup 2015 Bid, Football Federation Australia
Niclas Ericson
Director, TV Division, FIFA
Wong Sai Fong
Managing Partner, Shearn Delamore & Co
Manu Sawhney
Managing Director, ESPN STAR Sports
Eric Lynge
Senior Director, TV & Commercial Affairs, The Asian Tour
David Gill
Partner, Rouse & Co. International
Diamil Faye
President & CEO, Jappo SA
Dato' Thomas Lee
Chairman, Executive Committee, Asia Pacific Golf Federation
Kenny Hau
Regional Business Director
GroupM ESP
Tom Houseman
Chief Executive Officer, Wharf House
| ConferenceComponents | ||
Highlights of ASIA SPORTS 2009 will include: Each topic will be addressed by at least 2 speakers, each of whom will represent a different and thought-provoking perspective. Ample time has been allocated for delegate participation during the sessions and for additional networking opportunities throughout. |
Oct 1, 2009
ARCHERS AIM FOR TWO GOLD MEDALS
The national archery squad is unofficially targeting to win at least two gold medals at the Laos SEA Games scheduled to begin in December.
The honorary secretary of the National Archery Association of Malaysia (NAAM), Abdul Hamid Hassan said that based on the current achievements of the national archers, it was not impossible for the national archery squad to win at least two gold medals in Laos."I'm confident that we don't have many obstacles in winning the gold in the men's recurve and group events," he told Bernama, here on Thursday.
Abdul Hamid said he had confidence in the capability of national archer Cheng Chu Sian who had won the gold medal in the same event at the Korat SEA Games in Thailand, last year."At the Korat SEA Games, we had won two gold medals for the two events, and I'm confident we can achieve the same feat this time too," he said.
However, he said, the final list of the archers who would represent the country at the biennial sports meet had not been decided and was expected to be announced by next week at the latest.-- BERNAMA
The honorary secretary of the National Archery Association of Malaysia (NAAM), Abdul Hamid Hassan said that based on the current achievements of the national archers, it was not impossible for the national archery squad to win at least two gold medals in Laos."I'm confident that we don't have many obstacles in winning the gold in the men's recurve and group events," he told Bernama, here on Thursday.
Abdul Hamid said he had confidence in the capability of national archer Cheng Chu Sian who had won the gold medal in the same event at the Korat SEA Games in Thailand, last year."At the Korat SEA Games, we had won two gold medals for the two events, and I'm confident we can achieve the same feat this time too," he said.
However, he said, the final list of the archers who would represent the country at the biennial sports meet had not been decided and was expected to be announced by next week at the latest.-- BERNAMA
NIK AHMAD: FI TEAM NEED NOT REGISTER WITH SCO
The 1Malaysia F1 Team (1MF1T), slated to join the Formula One (F1) race next year, need not register with the Sports Commissioner's Office (SCO).Sports Commissioner Datuk Nik Mahmud Nik Yusof said this was because 1MF1T was an F1 racing team and not a sports body or organiser of motoring sports in the country."
As such, it need not register with SCO. However, I am not sure of its status. We will study the status of 1Malaysia F1 Team and decide whether to classify it as a team or an F1 sports body," he told Bernama here Thursday.Nik Mahmud said that if 1Malaysia F1 Team Sdn Bhd, the company behind 1MF1T was sports body responsible for organising F1 motoring programmes, then it should register with SCO."However, if it is classified as a team, then it must be supported by the Motoring Association of Malaysia (MAM) so that it gets a racing licence at Sepang International Circuit (SIC)," he said.
When contacted, MAM said the racing licence in Malaysia had been issued by the Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM) which had been given the right by FIA, motorsports world governing body.Its chief executive Mia Sharizman Ismail said 1Malaysia F1 Team Sdn Bhd was established as a company for racing and only had to register with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (CCM).
She said MAM only helped in development programmes in terms of manpower or organising races at low level."The F1 team is not only about its hundreds of staff but is also involved in organising local races, developing drivers and technical aspects of the motoring industry."Mia Sharizman said MAM's role was to find and polish drivers with the potential of making it as F1 drivers via go-kart and single seater races.-- BERNAMA
As such, it need not register with SCO. However, I am not sure of its status. We will study the status of 1Malaysia F1 Team and decide whether to classify it as a team or an F1 sports body," he told Bernama here Thursday.Nik Mahmud said that if 1Malaysia F1 Team Sdn Bhd, the company behind 1MF1T was sports body responsible for organising F1 motoring programmes, then it should register with SCO."However, if it is classified as a team, then it must be supported by the Motoring Association of Malaysia (MAM) so that it gets a racing licence at Sepang International Circuit (SIC)," he said.
When contacted, MAM said the racing licence in Malaysia had been issued by the Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM) which had been given the right by FIA, motorsports world governing body.Its chief executive Mia Sharizman Ismail said 1Malaysia F1 Team Sdn Bhd was established as a company for racing and only had to register with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (CCM).
She said MAM only helped in development programmes in terms of manpower or organising races at low level."The F1 team is not only about its hundreds of staff but is also involved in organising local races, developing drivers and technical aspects of the motoring industry."Mia Sharizman said MAM's role was to find and polish drivers with the potential of making it as F1 drivers via go-kart and single seater races.-- BERNAMA
NATIONAL COURT NAMED AFTER NICOL
The main court at the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil will be named the Datuk Nicol David Court, said Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek.He said this was the government's recognition for the excellent performance by the national squash queen in winning the World Open Championship for the fourth time in Amsterdam, last week.
He said the Cabinet yesterday accepted the ministry's proposal that the main court at the National Squash Centre be named after the national athlete who had brought glory to the country at the international level.
"The ministry believes that the move will provide inspiration and encouragement to other national athletes to continue to bring glory to Malaysia in the international arena," he said in a statement- Bernama
FAVOURABLE DRAW FOR MALAYSIA
The draw for the Yonex-Sunrise BWF World Junior Championships held yesterday saw a favourable draw for Malaysia after being drawn against less formidable opponents.
Malaysia who host the championships at the Suka Menanti Stadium here from Oct 23 to Nov 1, were drawn in Group Z, together with Singapore, Japan, France and Cambodia.
Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) treasurer Datuk Lim Teong Kiat who is also the Badminton World Federation (BWF) treasurer said 22 countries, including Malaysia, have confirmed their participation for the team events while entries for individual events has yet to be closed.
"So far individuals from 35 countries have confirmed their participation but since the closing date is on Oct 9, there may be more entries," he told reporters here Wednesday.
Defending champion China were drawn in Group W and have Indonesia, Russia, Macau and New Zealand for company.
In the last championships, Malaysia finished third after beating India.
Malaysia who host the championships at the Suka Menanti Stadium here from Oct 23 to Nov 1, were drawn in Group Z, together with Singapore, Japan, France and Cambodia.
Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) treasurer Datuk Lim Teong Kiat who is also the Badminton World Federation (BWF) treasurer said 22 countries, including Malaysia, have confirmed their participation for the team events while entries for individual events has yet to be closed.
"So far individuals from 35 countries have confirmed their participation but since the closing date is on Oct 9, there may be more entries," he told reporters here Wednesday.
Defending champion China were drawn in Group W and have Indonesia, Russia, Macau and New Zealand for company.
In the last championships, Malaysia finished third after beating India.
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