KUCHING: The PETRONAS Youth Football Closed Tournament (PYFCT) 2025 is more than a youth tournament; it is a key platform to develop young talent and support Sarawak’s vision for future football success.
Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi hailed the tournament as more than a sporting event, describing it as a symbol of hope, unity and untapped potential among Sarawak’s youth.
“This championship is not only a platform for sports development, but also symbolic of the hopes and great potential of Sarawak’s youth in football,” he said.
Dr Abdul Rahman, who is the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission and Islamic Affairs) made these remarks at the opening ceremony and team introduction for PYFCT 2025, held at Mydin Petra Jaya today.
“We know that sports are among the strongest unifying forces that bring communities together across backgrounds.
“In the context of Sarawak, we have witnessed that spirit come alive in various events – for example, last year’s SUKMA, where Sarawak emerged as the overall champion,” he said.
He added that tournaments like PYFCT 2025 help sustain and strengthen that momentum.
“PYFCT 2025 opens opportunities for players as young as Year Two to enter the world of football in a more structured and competitive way.
“This tournament proves that when we talk about the future of football in Sarawak, the grassroots must not be overlooked,” he added.
Abdul Rahman welcomed the initiative, noting that it not only focuses on athletic development but also emphasises core values such as discipline, teamwork and strong sportsmanship.
He stressed that these values are crucial in shaping the character and integrity of the next generation.
“Let us make this tournament the beginning of more opportunities and success in Sarawak’s football scene.
“With strong spirit, teamwork and commitment, I am confident that Sarawak can become one of the leading states in youth football development in Malaysia,” he said.