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Last weekend, I was asked by Ruhani Rabin who was invited by Maxis, to participate in an interview session with Dato’ Soh Chin Aun, Santokh Singh, Hassan Sani & “King” James Wong. Now, I’m sure many of you will be asking who these people are. Well, they are legends of Malaysian football. I bet you didn’t know Malaysia once qualified for the Olympics and was only 1 game away from qualifying for the 1982 World Cup in Spain! Back then, these 4 legends were in the much-feared Malaysian team back then that made all Malaysians proud . Unfortunately, that was our best team and best chance of us qualifying for the World Cup and after losing in that final qualifying round, it was all down hill for Malaysian football.

Santokh Singh & Soh Chin Aun

During the interview, I asked them what they thought of the current state of Malaysian football. Sadly, all of them agreed, it’s not up to par with the rest of the world simply because of politics in the local football scene which hinders the growth of Malaysian football. They also said that no one in the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) have approach them to help out in grass root development, which comes as a surprise to me considering what these guys have accomplished in their careers and what they can bring to the table. They mentioned that they were saddened because they felt “unwanted” despite contributing so much to the team and country. It became a bit emotional at one point during the interview.

Still got it! - Hassan Sani showing off his ball balancing skills

Gone were the days that you see supporters come in their team jerseys and fill the local stadiums to the brim. I myself used to be a Selangor FC fan, not a hardcore one but still I remember the time I used to follow local football when I was younger but not any longer. So what changed? According to them, it’s simply the lack of quality of the players today that made everyone distant themselves from local football. They rather watch the BPL who plays “sexy” fluid football than to watch the locals players play like a bunch of high school kids.

To me, I think we need role models like them to show the younger players what does it take to win matches and to play well. The current squad still lacks that special something despite being the current SEA Games champions. Perhaps one day these legends will play a role in development and share their knowledge and experience which might make a difference to the current squad and country.

L-R": “King” James Wong, Santokh Singh, Dato’ Soh Chin Aun & Hassan Sani

It was really an honor and privilege for me to be able to meet them and what more interview them. Thanks Maxis for giving me that opportunity.