Own football stadium in every state

Every state in this country should have its own special football stadium.

This was the hope echoed by former national player Akmal Rizal Rakhli to all the political parties that will win in the 13th General Election come May 5.

“A lot of our stadiums are being used for other activities, so we hope to have one that is only for football purposes.

“By having such a specialized stadium for football, it will help to maintain the perfect pitch field for the Liga M matches like in Europe,” said Akmal when contacted in Alor Setar on Thursday.

Akmal’s calling is based on his own experience in France, taking part in the Ligue 1, Racing Starsbourg teenage squad in 1999 and the FR Haguenau Division 3 club from 2000 to 2001.

He also hoped that any political parties that will run the country in forming a government to continue giving focus to the development of the national sports.

The Kedah striker is urging all the Liga M players and sports athletes to fulfill their duty by voting in the election.

Akmal is a registered voter for the Jitra state and Kubang Pasu parliament.

Meanwhile the National Silat Association (PESAKA) is also voicing out the same concern as Akmal.

Its secretary-general Datuk Megat Zulkarnain Omar Din said they had received the support from the Youth and Sports Ministry in spearheading their martial art.

He hoped any political party that comes into power will continue their support.

“Silat isn’t merely a sport that needs to be built but it is part of our national heritage,” said Megat Zulkarnain.