By Muhammad Fatkhurrozak Sokhipul Hadi
Tanjung Malim – The grassroots football scene in the Muallim district, Perak, became became more active and vibrant as the Proton Tanjung Malim Club once again organized the Under-16 Football Championship on December 28 and 29, 2024, involving 18 football development clubs and academies from across the country.
Previously, the Proton Tanjung Malim Club organized a grassroots football development league involving athletes under 12 years old in early August.
The President of the Proton Tanjung Malim Club, Hassan Subli, stated that the organization of this tournament was an initiative to develop a vibrant football culture and to serve as the best platform to uncover the potential of young athletes who are capable of competing at higher levels.
“This event was organized to provide space for young athletes to showcase their talents while further igniting the spirit of sports in the community to collectively develop the excellence of the nation’s football,” he said.
Also present to officiate the tournament was the Managing Director of SHJ Group Ventures Sdn Bhd, Haris Anuar.
He expressed his support for the noble initiative to preserve the sports culture at the grassroots level so that more competitive, active, and excellent athletes are born not only in sports but also in academics.
“With our country’s football industry continuing to grow, sports tournaments that involve grassroots development must be sustained and supported.”
“The initiative carried out by the members of the Proton Tanjung Malim Club and the officers from the Tanjum Malim Thunder Academy, by utilizing all the spaces and facilities available at the Proton Sports Complex, indirectly opens opportunities for athletes to showcase their abilities and continue supporting the national football industry while promoting the beauty of Muallim with all its flora and fauna,” he said.
This edition saw the Johor-based Asthonian FC Club excel by dominating the entire tournament awards.
Asthonian FC brought home the championship trophy and cash amounting to RM1200 when they were crowned champions, defeating Johor-based BBC United Club in the final match with an aggregate score of 3-0.
Three players from Asthonian FC swept the individual awards as Muhammad Ariq Buddrishah Ezwandy, Muhammad Aqil Isyraf Khairul Hisyam, and Muhammad Syazmie Hamdan clinched the Top Scorer Award, Best Goalkeeper Award, and Most Valuable Player Award throughout the tournament.
