Kota Kinabalu: Sabah FC received a whopping RM700,000 windfall after their 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory over Penang FC in the MFL Challenge Cup final at Likas Stadium on Sunday night.
Minister of Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan, who was watching from the stands, made the announcement after the match.
“Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called me and asked me to convey his congratulations to all the players and management of Sabah FC who have given their best in 120 minutes to chalk out a 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory.
“He has also informed me to convey this message that the State Government under his leadership has agreed to give a victory bonus of RM500,000 to the management and players of Sabah FC.
“I would also like to inform you that the Sabah Ministry of Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy has agreed to channel an additional incentive of RM200,000 as a token of appreciation for this excellent achievement,” he said.
He also said the Chief Minister is hoping that the future of Sabah football following the latest success would continue to thrive in the Malaysian football scene.
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Nizam added that the triumph of Sabah FC is not just a win; it symbolises the resilience and hope of the players and fans who have been waiting for this moment for years, and their strong presence was a game-changer in the shootout.
“This final match in a tense atmosphere, showed the mental toughness, discipline and fighting spirit displayed by both teams until the very end.
“I would also like to express my appreciation to the supporters who filled the Likas Stadium to provide unwavering support.
“Their presence was clearly one of the important factors that instilled enthusiasm in the team at critical moments.”
