The Malaysia Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) has selected flag football as its sport of choice for its annual “Klinik Pembangunan Sukan Baharu” nationwide tour, a ministry initiative to bring awareness to lesser-known sports across the country.

Spearheaded by flag football’s official National organistion, Malaysia American Football Association (MAFA), the event will be held in all 13 states and 2 Federal Territories including Wilayah Persekutuan and Labuan. This inaugural tour marks the first nationwide initiative to bring flag football directly to communities across Malaysia.

“We’re thrilled to be working hand-in-hand with KBS to bring flag football to Malaysians to every capital city of every state,” said Kyle Gunasekera, President of MAFA. “The tour aims to create awareness, encourage participation, and build grassroots support for the sport.

“This tour is a significant milestone for us and a stepping-stone towards integrating flag football into state-level programs and, one day, into schools nationwide.”

The first phase of the nationwide tour took place on May 9 in Alor Setar, Kedah, followed by May 10 (Gelugor, Penang); May 11 (Kangar, Perlis); May 17 (Peringgit, Melaka); May 23 (Kota Bharu, Kelantan); May 24 (Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu); May 31 (Johor Bahru, Johor); and will end on 21 June in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. The second phase will commence after the MAFA National Championships in July.

Flag football is gaining momentum in Malaysia, with increasing local interest and participation. In 2023, MAFA proudly hosted the IFAF Asia-Oceania Flag Football Continental Championships, placing Malaysia on the map as a regional hub for the sport. The inclusion of Flag Football in the LA 2028 Olympics further cements its global rise and Malaysia is proud to play its part of this global movement.

Photo: MAFA