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Daily Express
16-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Johnson breaks silence over decision not to defend post
Published on: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 Published on: Tue, Jun 17, 2025 By: GL Oh Text Size: Johnson said he was proud to leave with his head held high as the association is in a healthy state with more than RM111,000 in the account. Kota Kinabalu: Johnson Koh broke his silence on the decision not to defend the president post at the Sabah Tennis Association (STA) annual general meeting held in early May. He said although he had earlier pledged support from all the affiliates to give him another term before stepping down after more than a decade at the helm, the decision by Dr Terrence Soong to ignore his pledge made up his mind to quit the race. Advertisement 'During the president's speech at the start of the AGM on May 8, I had made it clear that I will only go for one final term, and I had also discussed with the person (Dr Soong) that I will hand over the post by end of the year by resigning as I had two special agendas to conclude after 17 years at the helm.' 'However, during the nomination that person ignored my intention and pledge, and decided to challenge me for the post instead. 'As a person of integrity, sincere in intentions and purpose I decided to withdraw my name from the contest. 'I told him 'you can have it' since he was in such a hurry and so impatient to take over the president post,' he said. Johnson said he was proud to leave with his head held high as the association is in a healthy state with more than RM111,000 in the account. 'When I took over in 2008, there was only RM2,000 in the account. Then Youth and Sports Ministry's permanent secretary Michael Emban assured me that the grant which was held back due to inactivity by the association will be allocated with me at the helm. 'After introducing the Sabah Invitational Team Tennis tournament with my team of great officials, Sabah Tennis went full steam ahead for 17 years in promoting tennis at all levels as well as tourism for the State. 'During my time as president, we managed to host the ATF – Asia Tennis Federation age 14 and under tournament here in Sabah for the first time. The association also played its part to have a roof built on the four Likas tennis courts. I had also personally met up with three Federal Sports Ministers for the inclusion of tennis as a core sport in Sukma, which finally succeeded just before the Sarawak Sukma in 2023,' he added. He also expressed his gratitude to the related Ministries, government agencies, media, players and their parents, and those who have given their support in the past, as well as offering his sincere apologies to those who may not have benefited or been offended by him. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
16-06-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Koh breaks silence on no contest for Sabah Tennis Association presidency
Johnson Koh KOTA KINABALU (June 16): After 17 years of dedicated and uninterrupted service as president of the Sabah Tennis Association (STA), Johnson Koh Yong Siang decided it was time to finally call it a day. And he did it his own way. Initially, Koh has stated openly that he wished to serve as president one final time as he was committed to completing two key initiatives before handing over the reigns. He even went as far as having discussions, including one day prior to the association's annual general meeting (AGM), with a potential successor regarding a smooth transition. 'As printed in the newspapers, I made my intention clear to serve one final term, but with a pledge to step down by the end of this year (2025),' said Koh, a stalwart of Sabah tennis since taking the helm in 2008. However, he was unexpectedly challenged for the presidency during the nomination process at the AGM on May 8. 'That person ignored my pledge and decided to contest the post. 'As a person of integrity, sincere in intentions and purpose, I withdrew my name from the contest. 'I told the AGM, 'You can have it,'' said Koh as he explained what has transpired on election day. 'That's the real reason why there is no contest for the STA president's post,' he added. Dr Terrence Soong is the new president of STA. Having said that, Koh revealed he had carried out his responsibilities to the best of his ability for the betterment of Sabah tennis during his tenure. Koh left behind a strong financial foundation, with over RM111,000 in the association's reserves and a legacy marked by milestones in sports development and organisational growth. It was a stark contrast to when he first assumed STA leadership in 2008, where the state body had only RM2,000 in its coffers. He recalled approaching then-permanent secretary of the Youth and Sports Ministry, (Datuk) Michael Emban, for assistance. Thanks to renewed confidence in the association's direction, STA received crucial support that paved the way for its revival. Under his leadership and team of committed officials, the Sabah Invitational Team Tennis Tournament was launched, helping to reinvigorate not only the sport but also tourism in the state. During this period too, Sabah tennis encountered three friendly sporting Chief Ministers, namely the current Sabah Head of State Tun Musa Aman, Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal and Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor. 'We also managed to get one of the Prime Ministers' wife to associate with the (invitational team) tournament,' he said. STA's efforts during Koh's tenure also led to Sabah being selected as a host for the Asia Tennis Federation's (ATF) Under-14 tournament, a first for the state. Koh also spearheaded a seven-year campaign to roof the tennis courts at the Kota Kinabalu Sports Complex in Likas, which eventually led to not just the tennis courts, but also nearby sepak takraw, volleyball and basketball courts being covered, an achievement he attributes to the consistent backing of supportive state governments. Beyond Kota Kinabalu, Koh's influence extended to Sandakan. In the 1980s, alongside Datuk Ian Chin Hong Chong, he played a key role in securing land and developing tennis infrastructure there. Today, Sandakan remains the only district tennis association in Malaysia to own its own tennis courts and clubhouse. A notable achievement came in 2023 when tennis was officially declared a core sport in the Malaysia Games (Sukma) by the federal Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, culminating years of advocacy by Koh, including personal meetings with three former federal sports ministers. 'Tennis, like all sports, must remain apolitical,' Koh emphasised. 'It must support the government of the day to ensure consistent facilities, funding, and moral support.' Meanwhile, Koh, in his farewell message, extended deep gratitude to a wide array of supporters. 'A big thank you to the media, authorities, ministries, volunteers, contributors, players, parents and all those who stood by the association throughout these 17 years,' he said. He also offered sincere apologies to anyone who may have been unintentionally offended or overlooked during his tenure. Towards this end and as STA transitions to new leadership, Koh leaves behind a revitalised organisation, a proud legacy and a heartfelt message of unity and purpose. 'I have given my all to Sabah tennis. Now, it's time for the next chapter,' Koh concluded.
Daily Express
31-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Express
Sabah Tennis Association congratulates Yuna on her victory
Published on: Friday, May 30, 2025 Published on: Fri, May 30, 2025 By: Lorena Binisol Text Size: Yuna: A gem in Sabah tennis. Kota Kinabalu: In a stunning display of skill and determination, Sabah's Yuna Koh emerged victorious in the Girls 12 & Under singles category, during the Tennis Malaysia Junior Tour Leg 3 held in Ipoh, Perak from May 19 to 25. Sabah Tennis Association (STA) congratulated the young athlete on her win at the national tournament. Another proud accolade for Sabah's new shining star in the making. From a draw of 32 participants, Yuna had to battle through five matches to reach the top. A first round sweep against Selangor's Naveena Netania 4-0, 4-0, and an encounter with second seeded Kuala Lumpur's Tan Ei Xin 4-0, 4-1, followed by defeating the 6th seeded Reefa Amani of Perlis 6-0, 6-2, and another sweep against third seeded Selangor's Amani Rose 6-0, 6-0, to enter the finals. Defying all odds, the un-ranked player outmatched the defending first seeded Isabella Rihanna of Johor 6-0, 6-1, to take home the gold. STA appreciated the firm effort she made in and off the court. Sabah's Sport Ministry encourages athletes to take part in competitions for the benefit of both Sabah and individually. Achievements such as the grant, the state and the well-earned respect and recognition as a worthy competitor among the Peninsular giants, such as Johor and Selangor. Advertisement Stepping boldly into next tournaments, STA hoped local players take examples of motivation and hard work bringing great achievement such as Yuna's as inspiration to strive for success with their tennis career. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Express
Game-changer for Sabah tennis: STA
Published on: Sunday, May 18, 2025 Published on: Sun, May 18, 2025 By: Lorena Binisol Text Size: The newly formed committee with their slogan, 'Nurturing Talent, Shaping Champions'. Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Tennis Association (STA) central committee met recently for the 2025–2027 term and representatives unanimously elected the STA team from seven district associations recently. The newly formed committee, under new President Dr. Terrence Soong, pledged to prioritise grassroots development and infrastructure expansion, particularly in under-served districts such as Kota Belud, Semporna, and Kuala Penyu. Advertisement Bridging the gap in tennis infrastructure for all over Sabah is the committee's main agenda. Soong said that plans to construct a tennis complex in Kota Belud are in the final stages of approval, and thanks collaborative efforts with the Sabah Sports Board (LSS) and the Ministry of Sports, Sabah. 'Our goal is to ensure no district is left behind. Kota Belud's facility will mirror the refurbished courts in Sandakan, providing youth with access to training facilities,' he said during a press briefing. The initiative also goes to Semporna and Kuala Penyu, where infrastructure remained limited. Advertisement The projects align with STA's renewed slogan, 'Nurturing Talent, Shaping Champions,' which marked its commitment in cultivating future stars while fostering inclusively in the sport. In addition to infrastructure upgrades, Soong announced plans to revitalise tennis activities in Tawau and Kudat, where local associations have been dormant. 'Tawau and Kudat have produced talented players in the past. By reactivating these associations, we hope to re-ignite interest and create pathways for competitive play,' he said. The move is expected to bolster participation in regional tournaments and strengthen Sabah's presence in national circuits. The 9-member Central Committee comprised representatives from urban and rural districts, ensuring diverse perspectives in decision-making. Key appointees include seasoned administrators, coaches, and former athletes, all tasked with driving STA's four-year strategic plane the emphasis was mainly for youth development programmes, coach certification initiatives, and partnerships with schools to integrate tennis into physical education curricula. Local coaches and players have also welcomed the committee's progressive vision. 'This is a game-changer for districts like Kota Belud. Access to proper courts will motivate young athletes to take the sport seriously,' said Mahmuddin, president of Kota Belud Tennis association. They came 3rd in the overall standings, their highest ever ranking, in the recent 37th Sabah State Inter Affiliate Tennis Championships. With the newly formed committee, STA is poised to transform Sabah into a tennis hub for Borneo and outside of the State. The association's immediate focus included the facilitation of construction of new tennis courts in districts without tennis courts, upgrading existing tennis courts and hosting inter-district tournaments to scout emerging talent. With their new slogan, the journey to 'shape champions', begins with empowering every corner of Sabah, one court at a time. ELECTED COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESIDENT - Dr. Terrence Soong (KK) VICE PRESIDENT – Sylvester Lawai (Sandakan) HONORARY SECRETARY – Irwan Isdup (KK) HONORARY TREASURER – Mahezzuan Masdah (Kuala Penyu) COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Aaron Bradley Masikam (KK), Christopher Lim (Sandakan), Mohd. Firdaus Sukor (Kota Belud), Rasyid bin Abdul Ghani (Keningau) and Tham Kok Min (Lahad Datu). * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
12-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Express
Kota Kinabalu crowned the overall champions
Published on: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 Published on: Tue, May 13, 2025 By: Lorena Binisol Text Size: Dr. Soong opening the 37th State Inter-Affiliate Tennis Tournament. Kota Kinabalu: Kota Kinabalu team emerged as the overall champions in the 37th Sabah Chief Minister's Overall Challenge Trophy, reclaiming the title in a spirited showdown that once again confirmed its dominance in state tennis. Held from May 9 to 11 at the Likas Sports Complex, the prestigious tournament brought together seven district teams namely, Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Keningau, Kuala Penyu, Semporna and Kota Belud in a three-day contest filled with grit and skill. Last year, Kota Kinabalu shared the championship with Sandakan after both teams finished with equal points. This year, however, the capital city's team claimed sole ownership of the title. The tournament, a highlight of Sabah's tennis calendar, continued to foster camaraderie among tennis players across the State, drawing participation from a wide spectrum of age groups and backgrounds. President of the Kota Kinabalu Lawn Tennis Association (KKLTA), Dr. Terrence Soong, explained the broader impact of the event. 'It is not merely a game or a contest, it's about solidarity and unity through sports. It inspires excellence and nurtures lifelong value. By participating in this tournament, players uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and foster a healthy, competitive environment,' said Dr. Soong. He also called on players to continue developing their skills in preparation for future national-level tournaments and praised the event's role in nurturing new talent. He took the opportunity to honour key figures who have contributed significantly to the sport in Sabah. He highlighted the dedication of William Lo, KKLTA's head coach for over four decades, for his commitment to developing young athletes. He also thanked Mohd Tahir DSP Kassim for his continued support for tennis in Kota Kinabalu and to other districts. Special recognition was given to Johnson Koh, immediate past president of the Sabah Tennis Association, for his 18 years of service, particularly in youth development, as well as to Datuk Idrus Shafie, former KKLTA president, for his instrumental role in revitalising the association. He also commended Joseph Balanjiu Jr., coach Tito Latoja and the KKLTA committee for their success in organising this year's tournament. As the teams battled for the coveted Chief Minister's Trophy, the excitement and energy on the courts reflected the growing strength and unity of Sabah's tennis fraternity. Sandakan Tennis Association president Silvester Lawai, who led a 36-member contingent, expressed pride in his team's performance despite not repeating last year's shared victory. 'We came back with strong determination. Our players were motivated and aimed to defend the title, but unfortunately, we didn't make it this time. We'll do our best next year,' he said. Among Sandakan's participants was the tournament's youngest player, 11-year-old Sandra Alicia, who took part in her first state-level competition—symbolising the bright future of Sabah tennis. Keningau's team, led by Rashid Ghani, brought a 41-member squad and participated in every category. Although they did not secure the overall title, Ghani emphasised the importance of participation and inspiring the next generation. 'Our goal was the championship, but what matters most is that our young players gain exposure and motivation,' he said, noting that the tournament's oldest player was 62, competing in the veteran category. Lahad Datu, led by Tham Kok Min, fielded 23 players. Tham reflected on their proud achievement in 2018 when they won the veteran's title, the last time the district held a trophy. He also acknowledged challenges in player development due to the lack of professional coaching in Lahad Datu. 'We have many talented juniors, but limited access to trained coaches hinders their growth. There's still much room for improvement in our grassroots programmes,' he added. With its blend of seasoned athletes, aspiring youth, and committed organisers, the 37th State Inter-Affiliate Tennis Tournament was more than just a battle for silverware, rather, a celebration of Sabah's vibrant and evolving tennis community. Results of the 37th Inter-affiliate Tennis Tournament: Junior Boys – Kota Kinabalu (champions), Sandakan (runners-up), Kota Belud (3rd place); Junior Girls – Kota Kinabalu (champions), Kota Belud (runners-up), Sandakan (3rd place); Ladies – Sandakan (champions), Kota Kinabalu (runners-up), Lahad Datu (3rd place); Men – Kota Kinabalu (champions), Sandakan (runners-up), Lahad Datu (3rd place); Veteran's Men – Kota Kinabalu (champions), Kota Belud (runners-up), Sandakan (3rd place). * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
