M'SIAN FOOTBALL NEEDS TOTAL REVAMP TO DREAM OF WORLD CUP ACTION - MINISTER

KUALA LUMPUR, July 12 (Bernama) -- Malaysian sports, especially football,
requires a total revamp to dream of seeing action in the World Cup said Youth
and Sports Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Ahmad Shabery said the revamp must involve development programmes,
infrastructure, training facilities from early age and adopting a strategic and
disciplined method of playing.

"The fruits of labour from such a revamp can only be expected after one or
two decades," he told Bernama after watching the World Cup final match between
Spain and Holland at a restaurant here early Monday morning.

"Revamp or change in the sports culture was what brought success to
countries like South Korea and Japan."

Ahmad Shabery who watched the match, which was eventually won by Spain,
together with National Sports Council (NSC) director-general Zolkples
Embong said both teams that played in the final showcased a high level of
commitment, dedication, skill and technique.

Shabery who was amassed with the passion and support from Malaysian fans for
the World Cup said: "I am very excited to watch the match in a restaurant with
fans."

"It is a very important factor that can be used to unite the community as it
does not separate gender, race or religion. Every where people are talking about
football.

"And many of them are willing to sacrifice their sleep to stay awake and
watch the match although they will be working the next day," he said.
-- BERNAMA