OBITUARY
KUCHING: Sarawak mourns the passing of Alan Vest, the football coach whose name became synonymous with the Bujang Senang (Crocs) golden era.
According to a TVS report, Vest succumbed to complications from various illnesses yesterday (Oct 30).
He leaves behind a legacy that forever changed the landscape of Sarawak football.
Born in Barnsley, England, Vest arrived in Sarawak in the early 1990s and swiftly transformed the state’s footballing fortunes.
Appointed head coach in 1992, he led Sarawak to unprecedented heights, instilling discipline, tactical brilliance, and a fearless spirit that captivated fans across the nation.
Under his stewardship, Sarawak achieved its most decorated period when it won the Malaysia Cup in 1992, a historic first major trophy for the state.
In 1997, the legendary coach guided Sarawak to the Malaysia Premier League title, cementing Sarawak’s place among the nation’s elite.
A year later, the state won the Malaysia Charity Shield. It was a triumphant curtain-raiser to the 1998 season.
Sarawak managed to enter the Malaysia Cup semi finals in 1999, a thrilling campaign that captured the imagination of fans.
Vest’s tenure also saw him bringing together a formidable squad of foreign imports like John Hunter, Jeff Curran, and David Evans, while nurturing local talents who would go on to become household names.
But beyond the silverware, Vest was a beloved figure, respected not only for his footballing acumen but for his humility, warmth, and deep respect for Sarawak’s culture.
TVS said former Sarawak star Ibrahim Mentali received the sad news through a WhatsApp group of former Sarawak players.
“I was shocked to receive this sad news. Before that, I had already known that his health was not good,” Ibrahim told TVS.
He said Vest always defended his players.
“I still remember when we were scolded by the management for being 2-0 down to Terengganu, he defended us.
“His actions lifted our spirits and we won the match 3-2 against Terengganu, which was a strong team at the time,” TVS reported.
Vest is still remembered as one of Sarawak’s best coaches and it is no wonder that his name is still mentioned by fans.
Under the leadership of this English manager and head coach, Sarawak became one of the most consistent state teams.
He embraced the state as his second home, earning the affectionate title ‘White Rajah’ from fans who saw in him a leader who gave his all for the people.
His booming voice from the sidelines, his passionate post-match interviews, and his unwavering belief in Sarawakian potential are now part of Sarawak’s collective memory.
Vest, didn’t just coach a team, he inspired a generation.
As Sarawak bids farewell to this towering figure, fans honour not just a coach, but a man who gave us pride, unity, and unforgettable moments of glory.
Rest well, Alan. You will always be part of Sarawak’s soul.
