KUCHING: The Sarawak football community could soon see a new leadership, with widespread support emerging for Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman as the potential new president of the Football Association of Sarawak (FAS).
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, acknowledged the growing consensus while affirming the ministry’s readiness to support whoever is elected through the democratic process.
“I can see that Datuk Fazruddin has been deeply involved in football, especially with Kuching City, and he’s helped bring the team to where it is today. I think there’s no better person,” said Abdul Karim.
He clarified that he was not campaigning for Fazzrudin, who is also Chief Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, but recognised the passion and commitment shown by the Kuching City FC’s chairman over the years.
“If not for his passion, Kuching City FC wouldn’t be what it is now. But it’s up to Fazzrudin, whether he is interested or not.
“If he is, God-willing, I believe Sarawak football might be able to return to its former glory days,” he said when met by reporters after officiating the Satok Xtive Youth Carnival 2025 at the Satok Sports Complex on Friday.
When asked if the Tupong assemblyman is the right person to rejuvenate football in the state, Abdul Karim said no one else has yet stepped forward with the same level of passion and capability.
“Presently, I don’t see anybody else who seems to be putting their name forward, or who might be at that level.
“But I hope this is not seen as campaigning for him. We fully support the democratic process of the AGM (annual general meeting),” he said.
He added that the Ministry will provide full support to whoever is elected president by the affiliates.
The statement comes amid increasing anticipation over the future leadership of Sarawak football.
Recently, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, also voiced his support, saying Fazzrudin is certainly the right choice.
“I hope he will be able to lead FAS, because football is a sport that really lifts our spirits – whether in the villages, in the cities, or anywhere else.
“We hope he will become the new president of FAS. With his background and exposure, he can bring clear direction to help uplift football in Sarawak,” he said.
For the record, the FAS’ AGM will be held on June 14.
