'King Gobal' kicks off his new book

New Straits Times

2 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: Football legend Datuk K. Rajagobal officially launched his own autobiography titled "Inilah Saya K. Rajagobal" today.
The memoir, which chronicles Rajagobal's chequered footballing life — its triumphs and tribulations — was launched at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair at the World Trade Centre.
The 68-year-old's epic three-decade journey through Malaysian football — both as a flamboyant winger for Selangor and successful national coach — offers inspiration to future generations of Malaysian footballers.
At the launch of his much-anticipated autobiography (written in Bahasa Malaysia), Rajagobal expressed his heartfelt gratitude to those in attendance, including Kumpulan Karangkraf co-adviser Datuk Nasir Hamzah, FA of Malaysia deputy president Datuk S. Sivasundram, and former national players Datuk Reduan Abdullah, Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan, Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, K. Gurusamy and Razman Roslan.
"This book is not just about me as a coach, it's about sharing my experiences, my struggles — falling down and rising again. That's what I want to give to all Malaysians," said Rajagobal at the launch.
"I don't want to just highlight my achievements. I want to tell the younger generation that anyone — regardless of whether they're in sports — can succeed if they work hard, stay disciplined, and hold on to their dreams."
Affectionately called "The Blessed One" by his fans, Rajagobal hopes the book will motivate readers to persevere through life's challenges.
"Our journey is not always easy. There will be hardships and setbacks, but what matters is how we respond. Every time I fell, I got back up. I want to share that spirit. I hope this book becomes a source of inspiration, a reflection of the Malaysian soul," he said.
Rajagobal's coaching journey included stints with PKNS, Selangor, Kelantan, Sarawak and Brunei, but it was with the national teams — Harimau Muda, Malaysia Under-23s, and the senior side — that he cemented his legacy.
He guided the national team to a historic gold medal at the 2009 Laos Sea Games before delivering Malaysia's maiden AFF Championship title a year later — a landmark moment in the country's football history.
Rajagobal closed his speech with a humble acknowledgment of the collective effort behind his achievements.
"Without the players, I cannot succeed. Without the officials, I cannot succeed. That's why I want to thank everyone who has supported me," he said.