THE third edition of the “I Love Penang” Nine-a-Side Football Tournament kicked off today at the Polo Ground in George Town, featuring 32 teams and over 700 players.
Organised by Kelab Sukan dan Rekreasi Kawan-Kawan (KSRKK) with support from various sponsors and the state government, the tournament offered RM2,500 to the winners, RM1,500 to the runners-up, and RM500 each to the losing semi-finalists.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the tournament, praised the club for organising the event, highlighting that sports development is a key agenda under the Penang2030 vision.
“By strengthening participation in tournaments such as this, we are not only nurturing talented athletes, but also shaping a healthy, active and excellent society in various fields. This tournament aligns with the state government’s efforts to empower sports as a medium for human capital development and to build Penang’s identity as a competitive and inclusive state,” Chow said in his speech at the Polo Ground.
He expressed hope that as the club approaches its 10th anniversary next year, it will maintain its current momentum to remain competitive in facing the challenges of the modern world.
Chow also said he hopes the nine-a-side competition will help uncover new football talents for a state that has produced legends such as Ali Bakar, Datuk Namat Abdullah, Datuk M. Kuppan, Pang Siang Hock, Datuk Shukor Salleh, and FIFA Puskas 2016 Award winner Faiz Subri.
He further expressed hope that the dispute involving FIFA sanctions against the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) over the use of forged documents to illegally obtain citizenship for seven players will be resolved.
“Whatever happens at the international or national level, grassroots development must continue to progress. The game provides an excellent platform to cultivate the spirit of sports, foster unity and our shared sense of purpose, and contribute to the development of both the state and the nation.
“We cannot neglect social and economic development at the community level. Therefore, we must also focus on social, religious, educational, and sports development. Initiatives such as STEM education and many others will help us advance Penang holistically and comprehensively, without marginalising any community,” Chow added.
Mohamed Irfan Sickandar Shah, vice-chairman of the club and tournament organising chairman, thanked Chow for his presence and the state government for implementing various major projects benefiting the people of Penang.
He said the tournament aims to elevate football as a platform for youth development and community unity.
“I hope all players compete with a strong spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and professionalism, and also use the tournament as an opportunity to sharpen their talents, build confidence, and strengthen ties between communities,” Mohamed Irfan said.
Among those present at the tournament’s opening ceremony were Wong Yi Hau, representing the Deputy Finance Minister and Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying; Padang Kota Service Centre director Ewe Chee Way, KSRKK adviser Nur Muhammad K. Mastan, KSRKK chairman Mohamed Sikkandar Mohamed Madina, Datuk Kader Haja Mydin, Baderul Zaman, Musaddik Rayisi and Mohd Nasir Muhideen.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
