KUCHING: Nearly three decades later, Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli still recalls Watson Nyambek’s dramatic 100m finish at the 1996 Malaysia Games (SUKMA), a moment he vividly remembers alongside the late Datuk Mohamad Taha Ariffin.
The sports analyst said the memory perfectly captures why the decision to rename Stadium Negeri as Stadium Taha Ariffin is a fitting tribute to the late Taha, recognising his immense contribution to Sarawak sports, particularly football.
“I believe the Sarawak Government’s decision to rename Stadium Negeri to Stadium Taha Ariffin is a fitting tribute that should rightfully be given to the late Datuk Mohamad Taha Ariffin in recognition of his significant legacy as a pioneer and ‘father’ of football development in Sarawak,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted recently.
Pekan, who had worked as a sports broadcast journalist, said one memory that remained vivid was the electric atmosphere at Stadium Darul Makmur in Pahang during the 1996 SUKMA Games, when Watson edged Azmi Ibrahim in the men’s 100m final.
At the time, Taha was serving as Sarawak’s chef-de-mission.
“The stadium was packed and the atmosphere was unbelievable. Even the late Sultan Ahmad Shah was there. Datuk Taha was extremely happy after Watson won that classic sprint battle,” he recalled.
Pekan added that immortalising Taha’s name through the stadium would ensure his legacy continues to inspire future generations of Sarawak athletes.
He also highlighted Taha’s legacy as the founder of the Football Association of Sarawak (FAS) in 1974, as well as his role in guiding Sarawak to the 1992 FA Cup triumph and three consecutive SUKMA gold medals in the 1990s.
