KUALA LUMPUR – After successfully hosting the ISTAF World Cup last week, the Malaysian Sepak Takraw Association (PSM) is now setting its sights on holding another prestigious championship to position Malaysia as a new international sepak takraw hub.
PSM president Datuk Sumali Reduan revealed that this has been one of his aspirations since assuming the presidency in 2022.
However, to achieve this goal, strong backing from various stakeholders, especially private entities, is essential to ensure that the event garners significant recognition on the International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF) calendar.
Since the conclusion of the ISTAF Super Series in 2015, Malaysia has not hosted any international sepak takraw championships.
While local tournaments like the Sepak Takraw League, Khir Johari Gold Cup, and Tun Ali Cup cater to domestic enthusiasts, they predominantly involve state and club-level participation, lacking national representation.
“It has been my hope for Malaysia to become a new destination for international sepak takraw championships because, if you observe, despite being one of the major powers in this sport, not many international tournaments are hosted in Malaysia,” Sumali said when contacted.
“Every year, the main events are the Thai King’s Cup held in Bangkok, Thailand, or if lucky, every two years there are the SEA Games followed by the Asian Games, and several other tournaments held abroad.
“Moreover, the SEA Games and the Asian Games are not held every year, and Malaysia has to follow the rotation.
“So, based on that, I am indeed making efforts for Malaysia to establish a new championship that will attract global attention.
“We have proven this with our success in hosting the recent ISTAF World Cup, and our hosting standards have set a new benchmark for countries that will host the tournament in the future.”
The showdown between the Malaysian squad and Thailand during the World Cup final last week, involving doubles, regu, and team events, has captured the attention of many, with tickets sold out at Titiwangsa Stadium, Kuala Lumpur. – May 29, 2024