KUCHING: The PETRONAS Youth Football Champions League (PYFCL) is not only a sports development platform but also symbolises the hope and immense potential of Sarawak’s young football talents.
Sarawak Education Department (JPNS) director Omar Mahli said that said the tournament should be viewed as a learning space where young players develop discipline, character and respect alongside competitive skills.
“Compete with passion, demonstrate high sportsmanship, and respect both your teammates and your opponents.
“Victory is more meaningful when achieved the right way, while defeat becomes a valuable lesson when accepted with grace and humility.
“Tomorrow, as you step onto the field, you will not merely carry your jerseys and football boots — you will carry your dreams, the hopes of your families, and the future of Sarawak sports,” he said when officiating the PYFCL 2025 Opening Ceremony at Pullman hotel here yesterday (Dec 27).
Touching on football development, Omar said the process requires time, patience and continuous commitment, with success depending on strong collaboration among schools, parents, coaches and corporate partners.
He highlighted the role of PETRONAS in providing a structured platform that allows young players to grow in a well-rounded and supportive environment.
“May this tournament become a memory that shapes who you will be in the future — not only as football players, but as individuals of character, knowledge, and resilience,” he said.
Omar also reminded students not to neglect their education while pursuing success in sports, emphasising that education remains the foundation for a broader future.
“Knowledge provides you with choices, direction, and wisdom in making decisions.
“At the JPNS, we believe that sports and academics must go hand in hand.
“When both are balanced, we nurture holistic students — physically healthy, intellectually sharp, and strong in character,” he said.
For the record, the PYFCL 2025 marks the culmination of this year’s youth football development programme, bringing together 500 students and management teams from 20 top teams in the Under-14 and Under-16 categories.
The seven-day tournament will be held in Kuching from Dec 28 to Jan 3, 2026, with matches taking place at Sarawak Stadium and Negeri Stadium.
