KUCHING: Bintulu made history today by defeating Samarahan 3-1 in a dramatic Sarawak Premier Cup final at Sarawak State Stadium in Petra Jaya.
Samarahan dominated the first half, controlling the game early, but Bintulu remained patient and methodical throughout.
The match took a dramatic turn just before halftime when Samarahan FA’s Khairul Jemi received a red card for a foul on a Bintulu player.
Bintulu opened the scoring in the 53rd minute through Badrul Hafiz Mohd Isa, followed by Shahmir Izat Sinang in the 57th minute.
Samarahan pulled one back in the 65th minute when Muhd Zarif Razali found the net, adding tension to the occasion.
Nevertheless, Bintulu’s Mohd Haisal Yusuf sealed the victory in the 74th minute, ensuring a memorable 3-1 triumph.
The win allowed Bintulu’s players, coaches and officials to take home RM50,000 in cash, as well as the challenge trophy, runner-up trophy, and medals.
Meanwhile, Samarahan, as runners-up, received RM30,000 in cash along with trophies and medals.
Kuching and Serian, who were defeated in the semi-finals, each collected RM10,000 in cash, plus trophies and medals as joint third-place winners.
The prize-giving ceremony was officiated by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
Also present were the Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; the Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; and the President of the Football Association of Sarawak (FAS), Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman.
The victory marks a historic milestone for Bintulu FA and underscores the growing competitiveness and talent development in Sarawak football.
