Editor’s Note: Apart from The Beer Factory, national striker Faisal Halim has also presented a motorcycle to avid national football fan Derrick Gan.
WHILE the unity government has recently been queried over its gushing treatment of the returning “heroes” and allocating RM5 mil for football development, one young man’s passion and dedication for the Harimau Malaya is definitely unquestioned.
To recap, Harimau Malaya’s recent short-lived sojourn in Qatar for the Asian Cup delivered two losses and a draw. The solitary point was earned against regional powerhouse South Korea hence the “hero” treatment upon the team’s return.
However, a Facebook user going by the name of Derrick Gan, 30, has earned much praise for his dedication and passion towards Malaysian sports. Images of him celebrating the Tigers scoring with unashamed tears in his eyes has gone viral.
More than one netizen highlighted that such dedicated supporters are rare.
What makes Gan’s story that more compelling is that he had earlier posted on Facebook his desire to sell his motorbike to fund his trip to Qatar.
His willingness to walk the talk gained much admiration from netizens.
Many netizens also praised Gan for his patriotism, with more than a few using him as an example to rebuke those who accuse non-Malays of being unpatriotic.
It was also suggested that instead of feting team Harimau Malaya, the players and coaching staff should meet Gan to say ‘thank you’ for his unwavering support.
Gan has since taken to Facebook to thank everyone for their positive feedback and encouraging comments. He further urged all Malaysians to get behind the national teams of all sports as their support was imperative towards success.
This young man’s passion is a huge advertisement for the unifying power of sport. Long may it continue (though better on-field results would help no end). – Jan 29, 2024
