PETALING JAYA: Expect the Sabah players to give a perfect send off for head coach Ong Kim Swee at his final game with the team.
The 53-year-old will be at the helm one last time when the Rhinos take on Putrajaya Athletic in the Malaysia Cup round of 16 at the Kuala Lumpur Stadium in Cheras on Saturday.
Kim Swee has decided to leave the squad when his contract ends this month, leaving behind a memorable time for the past 36 months in Kota Kinabalu.
Several Sabah players thanked Kim Swee for his time with the team.
Dominic Tan said, “It has been a great journey, thank you and all the best coach.”
Midfielder Park Tae-su reflected on the past three years and said even though the time was short, the memories were plenty.
“Thank you, coach. Three years is a very short time, but there are so many memories together. All the best to you no matter where you are, coach,” he said.
Indonesian midfielder Saddil Ramdani said, “Coach has given us love and change in the team and people of Kota Kinabalu.
“We are sad but happy because our coach has his own journey to go on towards success. Although the meetings and farewells came quickly, the memories will last a long time,” said Saddil.
Kim Swee had led Sabah to finish third in the Super League for three consecutive seasons and also brought them to the 2023 AFC Cup.
For Kim Swee, it is also difficult to part ways with the team.
“It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I announce my decision to take a different path and not continue as the head coach of Sabah after my contract ends,” said Kim Swee.
“My 36 months with Sabah have been truly remarkable and not a short journey by any means.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this amazing football club and to be part of its history,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Thanking Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Sabah FA president Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, and the club’s top management for their trust in him, Kim Swee also expressed his gratitude to the entire team.
“To the players, I am incredibly proud of all our efforts and achievements as a team. Your commitment and professionalism, both on and off the field, have been outstanding.
“It has been a great honour to work alongside you.
“To the support staff, I extend my deepest appreciation for your tireless efforts and dedication behind the scenes. Your expertise and spirit have been the backbone of our accomplishments.
“Lastly, to the fans, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude. You are the heartbeat of this club. Whether in the stadium or cheering from afar, your support has always meant the world to me and the team.
“I will always remember your cheers and encouragement. Although I will no longer be leading Sabah, I will remain a loyal supporter.
“I look forward to seeing this club continue to grow and succeed in the future. Thank you for everything,” he added.
