KUCHING: Sarawak's sports scene is set to make history once again as it prepares to host the Sarawak International Youth Football Championship 2025 (SIYFC25), scheduled to take place from 28 May to 1 June at the Sarawak Stadium in Petra Jaya.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol said this international grassroots tournament is not just an ordinary competition but a major movement to nurture young talents and position Sarawak on the global map as a hub for grassroots football development.

He also expressed his appreciation to the National Football Development Programme (NFDP) and the Football Association of Sarawak (FAS) in nurturing talented players.

"Perhaps many do not know that the NFDP has also produced many young players who have succeeded to the point of signing contracts with JDT 2 and many more," he said.

He said this during the SIYFC25 press conference at the Sarawak Stadium, on Tuesday.

With participation from both of local and international teams, SIYFC25 will see young players in the B8, B10 and B12 categories compete at the highest level while fostering sportsmanship, learning, and intercultural connections.

The tournament also offers a unique experience to participants and football fans with various side events, including the Kuching Ola Bola Fest, a Celebrity vs Media Exhibition Match, and the Sarawak International Grassroots Football Summit.

Meanwhile, President of FAS, Abang Zulkarnain Abdurahman said SIYFC25 is not just about winning trophies but creating experiences that can shape future champions.

“SIYFC25 is a platform that not only challenges young talents but also unites the football community from various backgrounds.

“This is an opportunity for them to experience the atmosphere of a world-class competition while building confidence and teamwork,” he said.

In addition, Chief Executive of SIYFC25, Nazree Nassir described the tournament as a catalyst for the transformation of grassroots football in Malaysia.

“The SIYFC25 is an important step in building a stronger football ecosystem. With the involvement of various parties, we are confident that this tournament will leave a lasting impact on the development of football not only in Sarawak, but throughout the country.

“With the slogan ‘Kicking Off Dreams, Creating Champions’, SIYFC25 is not just a tournament but a celebration of dreams and the true spirit of football,” he said.

He added that Sarawak is now poised to become a premier destination for young football talents and to make history as a world-class grassroots football hub. -UKASnews