KUCHING: As Press Metal Bintulu Sdn Bhd’s third-year sponsorship fuels Kuching City FC, chairman Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman is steering a long-term strategy to develop Sarawak-born players capable of competing in the Super League.
Fazzrudin said the partnership was not just about immediate on-field success but about building a sustainable football ecosystem in the state.
“In order to sustain at the top level, we need our local players to be on par with the Super League’s standards so we don’t have to rely heavily on players outside.
“But to achieve that, we need a very solid plan, a strategy, and of course, time,” he said.
He made these remarks after witnessing the signing of a sponsorship memorandum between Kuching City FC and Press Metal at Pullman Hotel today (Aug 12).
Fazzrudin, who was recently elected Sarawak Football Association (FAS) president, revealed that the association would implement a long-term football development programme aimed at producing homegrown talent.
“At the end of this programme, we hope to see Sarawak-born players capable of competing in the Super League.
“To reach that stage, we need strategic partners, and Press Metal’s continued support is a crucial part of that journey,” he added.
He also acknowledged Press Metal’s wider contributions to the community beyond football, noting the company’s involvement in education initiatives and aid programmes throughout Sarawak.
While talks on FAS’s development continue, Fazzrudin is confident that with proper support, more funding can be obtained to move the programme ahead.
