The national cerebral palsy men’s football squad honoured for their performance in Cambodia. — Photos: AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
Team feted to celebrate historic win at Asean Para Games in Cambodia
IT WAS a sentimental evening for the national cerebral palsy men’s football squad when its members were treated to high tea at a Kuala Lumpur hotel.
The event was held to celebrate their gold at the Asean Para Games (APG) 2023 in Cambodia.
The victory was significant as it marked Malaysia’s first gold at the tournament after a decade.
Malaysia beat Indonesia in a penalty shootout 3-1, after both teams were tied 1-1 in regular time.
At the high tea, there was a slide presentation to commemorate the training programme and moments at the tournament.
Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects coordination and posture due to abnormal brain development before, during birth or in early childhood.
'It wasn’t easy as it required dedication and hard work from everyone, athletes and coaches alike.' - Abdul Majid Mat
Malaysia Cerebral Palsy Football Association president Abdul Majid Mat said the team had received support from various parties.
“It wasn’t easy as it required dedication and hard work from everyone, athletes and coaches alike.
“Our thanks goes to the National Sports Council (MSN) for providing accommodation and training facilities,” he said, adding the team was eager to repeat its success at the next APG, slated to take place in January 2026.
Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim, who was guest of honour, recounted how he had met the squad shortly before they departed for Cambodia.
He said their achievement was an inspiration to other people with disabilities who aspire to become athletes.
“It is proof that hard work and discipline pay off, and that one’s disability is not a barrier to success,” he added.
Separately, Adam Adli said his ministry would assess potential programmes that could be developed with its RM230mil allocation in Budget 2025.
The figure was a slight increase from the RM224mil the previous year.
