Latest news with #AseanFootballFederation
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Ex-Malaysian footballer, coach K. Rajagobal's ‘Inilah Saya' book a nine-year project in the making
Datuk K. Rajagobal was standing at the cashier of an eatery in Publika, Kuala Lumpur, waiting to pay for his meal, when he was approached by a gentleman who recognised the legendary sports figure. Others in the shop had their eyes on him, knowing very well who he was. That is the power of 'King Raja'. Despite having played for Selangor and Malaysia some four decades ago, and later gaining national fame as coach from 2009 to 2013, Rajagobal continues to attract attention wherever he goes. Much has been written and said about Rajagobal, but he is best remembered as the man behind the euphoria that swept the nation when his squad won the 2009 SEA Games gold medal and the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Cup in 2010. Malaysians proudly wore the national jersey again, and many believed that more glory was on the horizon. Unfortunately, Malaysia has not won either tournament since. Fresh from recording a Julang podcast episode with seasoned journalist Rizal Hashim and Twentytwo13 editor Haresh Deol on May 29, Rajagobal sat down with the duo to talk about his book Inilah Saya (This is Me), which will be showcased at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair at the World Trade Centre tomorrow. In his trademark white shirt, adorned with a sewn-on Jalur Gemilang on the left, Rajagobal spoke over teh tarik (tea) and roti bakar (toast). 'After winning the AFF Cup in 2010, many told me to write a book about my journey and success. But it wasn't the right time,' he said. 'When I left the FA of Malaysia (FAM) in 2013, I thought it might finally be the right time. My eldest son, Kanason, told me, 'Appa, why don't you write a book?' I was still busy coaching, but when I returned from Sarawak in 2016, that's when I decided to start working on it.' 'It's been a nine-year project because of several delays. I was coaching PKNS FC between 2018 and 2019, so things stalled then. But once that ended, I got back to working on the book.' Asked why he decided to write it, Rajagobal said: 'I want to share my journey – the challenges I faced, my struggles, my hardships. I also want the younger generation to realise that anything can be achieved if we are mentally strong. Just focus on hard work, and you won't be easily defeated. You'll fall many times, but you'll get up.' 'I also hope this book inspires, motivates, and encourages Malaysians to be patriotic. The younger generation is our future.' 'I would love to see other legends and future players from various sports document their journeys and achievements. It allows others to learn from different experiences and become better individuals.' Priced at RM49, Inilah Saya is available at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair. Rajagobal will hold a meet-and-greet session at the fair tomorrow (May 29) from 11am to 1.30pm. The book is also available online at Karangkraf Mall.
The Star
7 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Devilishly good time as fans paint the national stadium red
PETALING JAYA: The National Stadium in Bukit Jalil had seen many great atmospheres but yesterday, painted in hues of Manchester red, it was something different. It wasn't just about football. It was about connection. Nostalgia. Unity. And perhaps, a longing for something greater at home. Thousands gathered, some as early as 3pm yesterday, despite the gates opening only at 6.30pm. The kickoff? Still hours away at 8.45pm. Yet they waited, sweltering under the late afternoon sun, laughing, singing, chanting—wearing their colours with pride. To many, this wasn't just a match. It was a dream, 16 years in the making. After all, the last time Manchester United graced Malaysian soil was in 2009. It was a reunion of sorts—between a legendary football club and its passionate South-East Asian fanbase. A celebration of sporting excellence and regional unity, as Asean Football Federation (AFF) president Khiev Sameth put it. "This is not just world-class football. It's a force that transcends borders. A celebration of hope and sorority. Tonight, we come together not just for the love of the game, but to give back—supporting Yayasan Al Sultan Abdullah," he shared. Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president Datuk Joehari Ayub called it a proud moment—not just for Malaysia but for South-East Asia. "It's a powerful symbol of unity. This club, steeped in rich history, remind us of the values of teamwork, dedication, and legacy. To welcome Manchester United back here is to welcome a piece of footballing heritage." L. Kumaran Raj, 37, who queued up since 4pm, said it was nice to see the squad coming straight from the season just for the fans. "I'm happy to see them here, and it means a lot that they came here straight after the season. Hopefully, their trip here brings them better luck for signings and operational decisions," he said. Another fan Zarif Meor Amidi, 22, said he was delighted to catch the team without the need to go to England to watch them live. "The atmosphere is great, and it's amazing to see so many United fans here. Finally, my friends and I got to watch United play without having to travel to Europe. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," he said. "We hope (Rasmus) Hojlund scores more goals soon and gains confidence because right now that's the weakest aspect of our team. We also hope the entire team treat this game as a proper pre-season match and build on that momentum."
New Straits Times
7 days ago
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Amorim turns red as phone alarm disrupts United, Asean All-Stars presser
KUALA LUMPUR: Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim caused an unexpected pause during the pre-match press conference ahead of the Maybank Challenge Cup clash against the Asean All-Stars here, yesterday. The minor incident occurred when the 40-year-old Portuguese tactician's mobile phone rang while Asean Football Federation (AFF) President Major General Khiev Sameth was speaking during the media session. All eyes turned to Amorim as he calmly silenced the device, managing the situation with composure before proceedings resumed. The light-hearted moment drew smiles from those present and added a touch of humour to the session. Speaking to reporters afterwards, Amorim revealed that the interruption came from his house alarm. "I apologise for the house alarm…when I'm away I like to control my kids," he said while holding back laughter as his face turned red. The clash between United and the Asean All-Stars is scheduled to take place at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil tonight. The last time the Red Devils played in Malaysia was during the 2009 pre-season tour, beating Malaysia XI twice, 3-2 and 2-0, respectively on July 18 and 20 at the National Stadium. The 13-time Premier League champions, who have endured a dismal season by their lofty standards when they ended the season in 15th spot with 42 points, are also scheduled to travel to Hong Kong as part of their post-season tour to play against the Hong Kong national team at the Hong Kong Stadium on May 30. – BERNAMA
