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WALK WITH AL-SULTAN ABDULLAH: KING OF SPORTS
November 5, 2025
Malaysia celebrated its rich sporting heritage and the spirit of national unity through the “Walk With Al-Sultan Abdullah: The King of Sports” initiative, held today at the historic Stadium Merdeka.
The initiative was graciously led by His Royal Highness the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah, together with Her Royal Highness the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah binti Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj.
The symbolic walk, organised by Yayasan Al-Sultan Abdullah (YASA) in partnership with ShekhinahPR, brought together more than 150 invited guests, comprising Malaysia’s sporting legends and former national athletes who have proudly carried the Malaysian flag on the international stage.
Among the distinguished attendees were Datuk Leong Mun Yee, Malaysia’s former diving queen who represented the nation in five Olympic Games; Nor Saiful Zaini Nasiruddin, former captain of the national men’s hockey team and three-time Olympian; Shanti Govindasamy, former national sprinter and long-time 100-metre women’s record holder; and Jagjit Singh, former national and Selangor rugby captain.
Also present were football greats Datuk Santokh Singh and Datuk Soh Chin Ann, as well as badminton legend Datuk Rashid Sidek, the 1996 Olympic bronze medallist.
As a gesture of generosity and compassion, Al-Sultan Abdullah graciously presented contributions through Yayasan Al-Sultan Abdullah (YASA) amounting to RM60,000 to Yayasan Kebajikan Atlet Kebangsaan (YAKEB), symbolising His Majesty’s concern for the welfare of Malaysia’s sporting heroes, as well as RM40,000 to Persatuan Bekas Pemain Bola Sepak Negeri & Kebangsaan, in recognition and appreciation of the services of former footballers who have brought glory to Malaysia on the international stage.
The event was supported by Bata, a household name that has walked alongside Malaysians for 95 years and continues to lead impactful community and wellness driven initiatives.
Also lending their support were FWHS Medik, Merdeka 118, DCS Entertainment, Etika, and Prince Court Medical Centre, whose collective partnership reflected the shared commitment to promote health, heritage and unity among Malaysians.
ShekhinahPR Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Christopher Raj, said the event was a meaningful success that fulfilled its purpose of honouring Malaysia’s sporting heroes and uniting the community through wellness and heritage.
“We are deeply grateful for the success of Walk With Al-Sultan Abdullah: The King of Sports, and truly hope our former athletes feel appreciated and celebrated for their lifelong service to the nation.
Their Majesties’ presence made this occasion even more special, as it reminded us of the deep respect and gratitude our country holds for those who have carried the Malaysian flag with pride,” he said.
Rabi Hasnabi, Managing Director of Bata Malaysia and Singapore, expressed his gratitude for being part of the meaningful occasion.
“We are honoured to have supported this royal initiative that celebrates Malaysia’s sporting heritage and the shared values of unity and wellness.
Watching Malaysian national legends walk together with Their Majesties truly reflects Bata’s long standing belief in movement, connection, and community,” he said.
The walk concluded with a Royal High Tea in honour of Malaysia’s sporting heroes, where Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah personally mingled with former athletes and expressed appreciation for their lifelong dedication and contribution to the nation’s sporting achievements.
Held at the historic Stadium Merdeka, the royal engagement served as a powerful reminder of Malaysia’s enduring unity, well being, and sporting excellence, celebrating the nation’s heritage and the collective journey of Malaysians walking together in the spirit of pride and togetherness.
