KUCHING – The Sarawak State Stadium was alive with excitement this afternoon as the MSS Kuching Division football team clinched the prestigious Sarawak Foundation Gold Cup 2025, dethroning the defending champions in a thrilling finale.
The grand closing ceremony was graced by the Head of State (Governor), Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi. Their presence underscored the state government’s commitment to nurturing youth talent and promoting sports excellence across Sarawak.
Arriving at the venue at 3:40 pm, the Head of State and his entourage were warmly received by the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, Datuk Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who also serves as the Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development.
Other dignitaries present included Sarawak State Director of Education, Mr. Omar bin Haji Mahli, alongside his wife, Puan Evaida binti Kassim Ramli, and Mr. Watson Chunggat, the Deputy Director of Education who represented the Director of Yayasan Sarawak.
In a display of strong family support, Tun Pehin Sri was accompanied by his daughters, Sharifah Fariah and Sharifah Nong-Jasima, as well as his son-in-law, Encik Hakeem.
Upon taking his seat in the main pavilion, Tun Pehin Sri acknowledged the enthusiastic crowd, waving to the spectators who had gathered to support their local division teams. The final match itself was a showcase of grit and skill, with MSS Kuching eventually overpowering MSS Serian to take the title.
The tournament, which ran from November 25 to 29, 2025, served as a critical platform for grassroots development. It featured 12 teams representing various MSS Divisions across the state, involving over 240 players under the age of 16 and supported by 101 team officials.
Following the final whistle, the Head of State presided over the prize-giving ceremony. Beyond the championship trophy, Tun Pehin Sri presented a series of individual and team accolades designed to recognise holistic sportsmanship.
These awards included the Fair Play Award, Promising Player Award, Top Scorer Award, and the Best Goalkeeper of the Final Match. Highlighting the importance of harmony in sports, a special Unity Player Award was also presented.
The event concluded with a photography session featuring the champions, distinguished guests, and the VIP party. Tun Pehin Sri expressed his gratitude to the organisers, coaches, and officials for their dedication to unearthing the next generation of Sarawakian athletes before departing the venue.
