PETALING JAYA: Former national champion Kenneth Low, a flamboyant and skilful player in his heydays, is not forgotten as the squash circle has been doing whatever possible to help him stay strong in his health during his financial struggles.
Kenneth, even feared by Egyptian legend and four-time world champion Amr Shabana during their professional careers in the late 1990s, had suffered a stroke two years ago.
Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) director of coaching Major (rtd) S. Maniam, who has been Kenneth’s mentor and coach, said that the squash circle are doing whatever possible to keep the struggling player afloat.
Financial aid: Kenneth Low (right) has been getting an allowance of RM300 since last month.
Maniam said that SRAM president Gerard Monteiro had personally contributed a substantial amount to Kenneth upon learning about his struggles four months ago. “As a mentor and coach, I have always helped Kenneth whenever he approached me. Whether it is looking for jobs or financial aid, I have tried to help in the best way I can,” said Maniam.
“Recently, SRAM president Gerard also gave him a substantial amount of money to cater for his medical treatment.
“We have an 80s players group where they have also contributed financially to support him.”
It was through the 80s players group in Facebook that Kenneth, 44, was able to get his current job where Best Archery Centre owner Jeffrey Kok had offered the former international a coaching job.
Although Kenneth doesn’t know much archery, Jeffrey was willing to offer the job at the centre to help a fellow squash player earn a living and also regain his body coordination motor skills, which has been making it difficult for him.
Former international Sharon Wee, who is SRAM vice-president, had also contacted National Athletes Welfare Foundation (Yakeb) to reach out to Kenneth and offer medical help.
“Currently, Jeffrey is helping him by offering him a job at his archery centre while Yakeb, through Sharon’s initiative, had acted swiftly and offered medical assistance. He may need a check-up under a neuro expert,” added Maniam.
Yakeb stated that Kenneth has been getting an allowance of RM300 since last month and the foundation may also help to refer him for a check-up under a neuro expert.
SRAM had roped in Kenneth as a national coach at one point. He had also become a coach for Thailand and did several other odd jobs, including working as a cleaner at restaurants and condominiums.
