KUCHING: All signs point to Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman leading Sarawak football into its next chapter, with unanimous backing ahead of the Football Association of Sarawak (FAS) annual general meeting on Jun 14.
The Tupong assemblyman’s unopposed candidacy has sparked optimism, with high hopes that his appointment will bring renewed energy to football across the state.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said Fazzrudin is certainly the right choice.
“I hope he will be able to lead FAS, because football is a sport that really lifts our spirits — whether in the villages, in the cities, or anywhere else.
“We hope he will become the new president of FAS. With his background and exposure, he can bring clear direction to help uplift football in Sarawak,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after a press conference on the Asian Individual & Doubles Squash Championship at the Grand Margherita Hotel today.
Rentap described Fazzrudin as a well-rounded candidate, pointing to his experience in the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) where he served as assistant chef de mission (ACDM).
He also pointed to Fazzrudin’s leadership at Kuching City FC as chairman and familiarity with FAS as key strengths for the role.
Additionally, Rentap stressed the importance of strengthening football at the grassroots level.
He cited the 2024 Petronas Youth Football Closed Tournament, a collaborative programme that has helped develop young talent in the U10, U12, and U16 categories, as a step in the right direction.
“We’ve always focused on developing young players. If we don’t have youth players, how will we find future senior players? That’s one of our hopes — to raise the overall standard of football in Sarawak.”
He also noted Fazzrudin’s active role in community sports initiatives, including his leadership of Axis Club, which supports multiple disciplines such as football, athletics, and sepak takraw, all of which have helped identify and nurture local sporting talent.
“These platforms are vital. Without them, how would we identify new talents or athletes for Sarawak?” he said.
