KUCHING: For lifelong Liverpool fans in Sarawak, the club’s 2025 Premier League victory was more than just a title – it was the fulfilment of decades of unwavering loyalty.
From schoolboys in the 70s to seasoned supporters in their 50s, Liverpool fans across generations came together on Sunday (May 25) at The Spring Shopping Mall to celebrate the historic triumph, turning Kuching red in a spirited parade led by The Kuching Reds.
An Anfield-style open-top bus led a jubilant convoy of supercars and big bikes as the colourful procession made its way through Kuching’s iconic landmarks – from Satok and Kampung Muhibbah/Dagok to the Darul Hana Bridge waterfront and Padungan
BBut it wasn’t just about cars and colours. It was a celebration decades in the making – a moment of shared pride for loyal fans who have stood by the club through thick and thin.
Several local Liverpool faithful shared their stories with the Sarawak Tribune on Sunday.
For Najib Imran, 49, the journey began back in 1989.
“I was 13 or 14. I remember watching Ian Rush, John Barnes, John Aldridge, Steven McMahon – that’s when my love for Liverpool started.
“I think it was my dad who influenced me. He was a Liverpool fan too. I don’t support individual players, I support the team,” he said.
Zainol Asri, now 55, has been a Red since 1979.
“Those were the days of Sammy Lee and Graeme Souness. We used to watch the games on delayed telecast back then,” he recalled.
For Shawal Bolhi, 56, the loyalty started even earlier.
“I was in Primary 4, around 10 years old. I’ve supported Liverpool for 46 years now,” he said, naming legends like Ray Clemence, Kenny Dalglish and Ronnie Whelan among his early heroes.
Gat Belabot, who began following the club in 1977, said the passion has never faded.
“I started when I was in school. Ronnie Whelan, Kevin Keegan – those names lit the spark. By Form 3, I never missed a game. And now, with Mohamed Salah, the love just continues,” he said.
The Kuching Reds, officially registered as a sports and recreational club in 2024, now boast over 250 members.
Sunday’s parade was not just a walkabout tribute to celebrate the club’s 20th Premier League title win, but a heartfelt reminder of how football unites people, builds memories, and celebrates lifelong loyalty.
