By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Aug 9 — The state government has played a subtle yet prominent role in enabling the progress of Selangor FC, as its efforts have allowed the state football team to win various championships and produce exceptional players.
Its chief executive officer Johan Kamal Hamidon said the Red Giants’ accomplishments were also supported by the efforts of Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, while he was serving as the state executive councillor for sports and Selangor FC’s manager.
He added the team, under head coach Tan Cheng Hoe’s guidance, has also benefited from several comprehensive facilities, including training centres, which were made possible via various forms of support.
“It is not merely a matter of cash but also of moral support. Even after becoming Menteri Besar, Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari remained attentive to Selangor FC, meeting and exchanging ideas at least two to three times a year.
“One of his greatest achievements was leading Selangor to win the Malaysia Cup in 2015, as well as establishing Akademi Bola Sepak Merah Kuning to nurture player talents,” he said.
Johan noted that meticulous management and a focus on player welfare have prevented the team from facing major issues, like salary arrears.
He also believes the initiatives outlined in the state election manifesto Tawaran Kita Selangor for the next five years will further elevate Selangor FC’s reputation to higher levels.
“We have been receiving assistance for some time now, and the team became a priority when Stadium Shah Alam, synonymous with football, was revitalised. This is something we deeply appreciate,” Johan said.
On July 31, Amirudin in his capacity as Selangor Pakatan Harapan chairman, launched Tawaran Kita Selangor, which encompasses various critical sectors to drive the state’s current progress.
Part of the manifesto’s content, consisting of five core areas, has already been implemented under the Menteri Besar’s tenure while other programmes are included in the First Selangor Plan (RS-1).
