I agree with the writer’s view on the role of sports as a catalyst for nation-building and national unity. As someone who grew up in the 1960s and 1970s, I fondly recall the excitement of football fans throughout the country in following the event. Most Malaysian football fans, particularly those who lived outside Kuala Lumpur, followed the matches live over Radio Malaysia. However, in terms of team participation and glamour, our Merdeka Tournament was regarded by football pundits as the most competitive and the best in Asia. Tunku’s initiative in using the appeal and symbolism of football to promote national unity and instil pride among Malaysians is a testament to his foresight as a leader of a multiracial country.

Source: The Star August 02, 2021 00:11 UTC