Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah FA women’s football team secured a RM100,000 windfall from the State Government following their 2026 National Women’s League (LWN) title victory last week.
They clinched their third championship in four years with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Selangor in the final at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium.
In a presentation at his office on Friday, Minister of Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan handed a mock cheque to Sabah Women’s Football Committee chairman Muhd Arziz Afizy Rumsani.
He highlighted that this first-of-its-kind cash incentive, initiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, underscores the State Government’s recognition of the team’s historic success“This isn’t just about the RM100,000 value; it’s about the Government’s dedication and the Chief Minister’s strong support for the team. Our female players, in particular, fought with everything they had until the very last second. It proves that in sports, if you have commitment and determination, God willing, success is inevitable,” he said.
He expressed hope that the incentive would boost player morale, inspiring them to elevate their performance and sustain excellence in future tournaments.
He urged the players to intensify their training, adhere closely to their coaches’ instructions, and maintain the high levels of discipline and commitment required for greater success.
He noted the State Government’s vision for the Sabah women’s football team to remain a dominant national force, with the ultimate goal of representing Malaysia in Asian and international competitions.
He also reaffirmed the State’s commitment to empowering women in sports, creating pathways for them to bring glory to Sabah on the world stage.
Meanwhile, Arziz Afizy thanked the Government for the generous incentive.
“On behalf of the Sabah Football Association, I want to extend our deepest thanks to the Chief Minister, the Ministry, and the Minister for Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy.
“Securing this title for the third time is a massive milestone, and this is the biggest bonus we have ever received,” he said.
Among those present were the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Datuk Mansur Asun; assistant coach Petronella Douny; and import players Misaki Nakayama from Japan and Sebin An from South Korea.
