CJMY
The eagerly awaited 24th World Chinese Evergreen Cup football tournament began with fervor as 34 teams from seven countries converged at the Penang Sports Club.
Spanning five age group categories, the six-day competition commenced on a modest note, graced by the presence of Penang governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
Penang Governor graced the opening ceremony
The tournament’s opening ceremony, while understated, carried immense significance. Penang governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, accompanied by esteemed guests, performed the ceremonial ribbon-cutting.
Following this, he inaugurated the event with a symbolic kick-off. Organising chairman Teoh Choon Kheng and World Chinese Football Association chairman Angel Ngu introduced Ahmad Fuzi to team managers and captains, underscoring the event’s importance.
Among the dignitaries present were Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, the state exco for Youth, Sports, and Health, Datuk A. Rajendran, Penang Island City Council mayor, Datuk Soh Chin Aun, ambassador of Evergreen Cup, Lee Soon Huat, patron of Ex-State & Ex-National Footballers’ Association Malaysia, Lee Teong Li, advisor of Evergreen Cup, and Penang State Sports Council director Harry Chai.
State gov’s strong support for the tournament
Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, on behalf of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, extended a warm welcome to participants from China, Spain, the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia. He emphasised the state government’s strong support for the tournament, highlighting football’s unique ability to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds, transcending race, religion, age, and gender.
Teoh Choon Kheng expressed gratitude to the state government, main sponsor uFootball, other supporters, and the participating teams for bringing the tournament to life. He underscored that football, beyond fostering teamwork, promotes friendship.
The seeds of camaraderie sown over decades now flourish as friends gather from near and far. Teoh encouraged participants to explore Penang’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, creating beautiful memories during their stay.
In a touching moment, national football star Datuk Shukor Salleh, despite dealing with a hip problem and arriving in a wheelchair, received warm greetings from fellow football figures. His presence, along with that of other luminaries, added to the camaraderie and nostalgia surrounding the event.
The 24th World Chinese Evergreen Cup football tournament’s commencement in Penang marks the celebration of football, friendship, and cultural exchange. With diverse participation from seven countries, this event promises exciting performances and memorable moments.
Source: Buletin Mutiara
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