By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Jan 3 — After a four-year hiatus caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Sultan of Selangor’s Cup (TSSC) is back this year and scheduled to take place on August 17 at the historic Merdeka Stadium.
TSSC committee chairman Tan Sri Abd Karim Munisar said the annual friendly football match between Selangor and Singapore is expected to see 20,000 spectators, with tickets priced as low as RM10.
The 20th edition of the friendly match will bring back memories of the golden era of Malaysian football, including legendary figures like the late Datuk Mokhtar Dahari, the late Datuk R. Arumugam, Datuk Santokh Singh, and Datuk Soh Chin Ann, all of whom once played at the Merdeka Stadium.
“This edition is significant as we bring spectators back to the stadium where football legends were born. The stadium brings back old memories as it served as the playing field for all of them.
“They contributed significantly to the national team, which led to our success in the 1972 and 1980 Olympics. I believe football fans eagerly await to experience the ambience on August 17,” he said following an inspection of the stadium today.
Abd Karim added the event, which involves two categories — the veterans and selection squad — will also feature a live performance by renowned Malaysian artist Datuk Jamal Abdillah.
“To add to the excitement, there will be a fireworks display and a parachute jump performance by the police force, carrying the Malaysian and Selangor flags,” he said.
The friendly football match, which was last played in 2019 with Selangor defeating Singapore 1 – 0, offers a prestigious trophy and a RM80,000 cash prize.
First inaugurated in 2001 by Sultan Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, the match is an annual event except in 2015 due to the haze and since 2020 due to the pandemic.
Selangor had won nine out of the 17 matches played against Singapore, except in 2004, where both teams were announced winners after tying 2 – 2.
