Choon Wah's demise an irreplaceable loss - Teammates

The demise of former national footballer during the 1970s, Wong Choon Wah, is regarded by his teammates an irreplaceable loss.

One of them, Datuk Khaidir Buyong, who played with him while representing Selangor, said Wong's agility on the field, which was feared by the opponents, enabled Selangor to win the Malaysia Cup for several years.

"He was the best midfielder the country ever produced, his creativity, the ball pass he made could sometimes deceive the defence.

"He was a dedicated person on the field," said Khaidir when met at the Kwong Tong Funeral Home in Sungai Besi to give his last respect on Saturday.

Wong, 67, died due to a heart attack at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital on Friday.

Khaidir said Wong liked to discuss the national football with his former team mates and kept abreast with the development of the national football squad.

Sharing Khaidir's views of Wong was former Selangor player K. Gunalan, who regarded Wong as a teacher who had taught him alot although they had never played together.

"He was a friendly person and often gave us tips, especially when he was the manager and coach (for the Selangor team) during the Sultan Selangor Cup championship 12 years ago.

"I am saddened with the demise of a football legend who had contributed a lot for the country," he added.

Former national hockey player during the 1970s, K. Balasingam said his friendship with Wong started when they both represented the country at the 1974 Asian Games in Tehran, Iran, during which their teams brought home a bronze medal each.

"I also came to know several other football players, like (Datuk)Santokh Singh and (Datuk) Soh Chin Aun. What I can say is that they were the best national players then," he added.

Wong is survived by wife, Lee Nyok Ching, 63 and three daughters, twins Julia Wong Fai Mei and Samantha Wong Fai Lai, 36, and Jazz Wong Fai Siang, 32.

He is expected to be laid to rest on Monday.