KUCHING: Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine has voiced strong support for enhancing football development in Sarawak, backing Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh’s call to revive the state’s football legacy, with a focus on elevating Kuching City FC (KCFC) to international prominence.
Royston highlighted the current achievements of Kuching City FC (KCFC), which has adopted the slogan “Small Club with a Big Heart,” as a prime example of a club with a unique identity that has made its mark in Malaysia’s top-tier Super League.
“Congratulations to KCFC for their outstanding achievements.
“What they have accomplished today didn’t come easily; it took commitment, hard work, and sacrifice,” Royston said, highlighting the importance of backing the club’s future ambitions.
He proposed that the Sarawak government provide full support to KCFC, ensuring the team can continue to grow and eventually compete at the Asian level.
“Let’s place our trust in KCFC to elevate Sarawak’s name on the international stage,” he added.
He said this when debating on the Supply Bill 2025 at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting yesterday (Nov 15).
Royston also stressed that the Football Association of Sarawak (FAS) should continue its development agenda in collaboration with the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) and the Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS).
He suggested organising coaching courses, referee training, and local leagues at various age levels to nurture young talent, ultimately building a pipeline of skilled players to join Kuching City FC in the future.
“These programmes will undoubtedly require government funding.
“I urge the government to assist FAS and all regional football associations in Sarawak to ensure comprehensive football development,” Royston added.
While acknowledging the efforts already made by the government through FAS, SSC, and MSNS, he stressed that more drastic action is needed to restore Sarawak’s competitive edge in the national football scene.
“We have many local football experts with extensive experience, such as Jalil Ramli and Pengiran Bala, as well as highly qualified coaches like Safri Amit and Mohd Hakimi Man.
“We can leverage their knowledge and expertise to help elevate Sarawak football,” Royston said.
