Wednesday, November 11, 2009

FAM, YOU MUST PAY RM214,000

Some unruly Kelantan football fans caused damage estimated at RM214,000 to the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil during the Malaysia Cup final between Kelantan and Negeri Sembilan last Saturday, the Dewan Rakyat was told Tuesday.

Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said 224 seats, three lanes, the gate for disabled people, other gates and toilets suffered damage.

Winding up debate on the 2010 Supply Bill at the policy stage, he said public money would have to be used to repair the damage and advised football fans not to vent their disappointment on the stadium fittings but to show sportsmanship.

During the match last Saturday, almost 80 per cent of the 85,000 spectators were Kelantan supporters while Negeri Sembilan fans numbered about 15,000.

When Negeri Sembilan led 3-0 in the 58th minute, the Kelantan supporters started to throw various objects and fire crackers and torched banners and seats in one part of the stadium. (Negeri Sembilan won the match 3-1).

Nevertheless, Ahmad Shabery said it could not be denied that the overwhelming presence of Kelantan fans at the National Stadium had revived enthusiasm towards national football.

On a suggestion by Datuk Ibrahim Ali (Independent-Pasir Mas) for the formulation of legislation to control fan behaviour, Ahmad Shabery said the ministry would look into it.