前任主席 访谈录
Interviews with Past Chairmen
配合2010年52周年庆特刊访问了6位前任主席，留下了珍贵的回忆及心得
In conjunction with the 52nd Anniversary in 2010, interviews were conducted with six former Chairmen, preserving their precious memories and insights for the future.
@球技品德要兼备
本州社团闻人邓松青，曾是亚庇篮总的第三届主席，由一位公认的杰出球员后来毅然成为球会领导人，于一九六五年执掌亚庇篮总，三年后因政治因素下被扣留而离开了篮坛，但始终如一深爱着亚庇篮总，在礼貌拜会中为我们叙述了本地篮坛的一些往事。
他回忆说，当他十六岁的时候，已是吉兰丹的州级球员，1953年远赴新加坡参与南大杯篮赛，从而认识了来自北婆罗洲队的林志成及杨孔章等亚庇球员，所以较后移居至亚庇，也自然成为本地球员的一份子，成为了黑白队的主将之一。
他说，黑白队是由蒋明祥所组织起来，直至1969年他入狱后才宣告解散。
＂当年，由一批热爱篮运的人仕开始把亚庇篮总组织起来，那个时候，我们凭一股热诚，什么都不计较，出钱出力，那时当裁判不仅没月收钱，还要受气。。。。。＂
他形容，当年的球队水准都很接近，球赛肯定非常激烈，一球的不慎误判就会引起争执，那时当裁判的有林志成，谢耀山，杨孔章及李良田等人，同时他本身也有参与裁判的工作。
他说，早在三四十年代，亚庇篮运主要是由同乡会，如福建会馆及龙岩会馆等组建球队，而后来才由学校培训自己的校队。
＂我看过一些旧相片，他们那时在一个泥地上划线，然后一起比赛，现场看起来沙尘滚滚。。。。＂
他说，亚庇身为州首府，拥有较好的设备，所以成为了西海岸区的篮球中心，尤其邻近小埠只有小学，没有中学，升学的青年都会集中在亚庇，那时甚至有甲及乙组水平的球队，有潜质的球员才能从乙组升至甲组的球队。
他指出，比起五六十年代，现今篮球的热潮已没有这么狂热，那时没有什么其他娱乐，几乎每位华人子弟都打篮球。
＂在亚庇民众会堂还没建成之前，亚庇区的最主要球场，就是丹容亚路马场附近的室外篮球场（现址是沙巴赛马俱乐部会所），虽然每间学校也有自己的篮球场，当一旦有大型比赛，大家就集中在这个中立球场进行竞赛。＂
＂回想当年，我依然感到很愉快，我们那时有一批志同道合的朋友，一起工作（推动篮运），后来又看到年青一辈接手篮总，对我们来说是一种安慰，
因为我们真的付出很多，全是义务。＂他说那时除了向外筹款，也要自己掏腰包。
他说，当年出外参加比赛是很辛苦的，球员都是坐船一连五天，＂那时打球是没有津贴，也没有所谓大牌，是要我们付钱的，球员根本就没有这个念头，被选到为代表已是很荣幸的事情，若能够代表亚庇就证明你的球技已到了一个层次。＂
谈到庇根湖三地的实力比较时，邓氏说，这三个地区的实力不伯相仲，互相交战都各有胜负。
因此，他表示，篮球从来都不是让任何人一支独秀，而是讲究团队的精神，甚至在整体沙巴篮运的发展上，也不可以仅得某个县区实力强盛而己。
＂篮运的发展往往是视于球会领导人的热忱，要有一股气，带领着一批人认真地做，若果只是出钱资助而己，那么其收效是不大的。＂他声称应该多鼓励比赛，多在外比赛，以及重视学校的篮运发展。
他认为，应从学校培育更多球员及球会的接班人，因为当年也是如此栽培对篮球热爱的中学生，他们后来也逐渐地成为球会的中坚份子。
他继指出，现今的篮球发展会比更好，尤其可以透过电视观看到外面篮球的招式。 ＂我们当年只能听收音机，凭空想像外国人是怎么打球的！＂
曾是场上令人钦佩的球员，邓松青认为一位优秀的好球员，是需要球艺与品德兼备，＂有此两者才能得到他的尊重！＂
他说，现今可看到很多年青球员并不尊重一场比赛，甚至衣冠不整，球衣放出来，鞋带也没绑好，让观众留下了不良印象，又怎能博得他人的敬重。
因此，他表示，所以在培育球员方面，不仅要教导球技，也要让他们知道怎样成为好球员，才会有美好的前途，尤其美国职篮的伟大球员已向世人证明了，他们有成熟的球艺并有值得尊重的品德。
他劝请说，身为球员要慎言敏行，要有良好的打球作风，＂打球固然会犯规，但不能当铁公鸡来打！＂
最后，他强调，篮总要负起培育好球员的责任，即是要在这方面严格，不能因某位球员的球技好而让他耍大牌，＂因为篮球是五个人在打，不是一个人！＂
Excellence in Both Skill and Character
Teng Song Chen, a prominent figure in Sabah’s community circles, served as the third Chairman of the Kota Kinabalu Basketball Association (KKBA). A distinguished player who stepped up to become a club leader, he took the helm of the KKBA in 1965. Though political circumstances led to his detention and departure from the basketball scene three years later, his devotion to the association remained steadfast. During a courtesy visit, he shared several anecdotes from the local basketball scene’s past.
From Player to Leader
He recalled that by age 16, he was already a state-level player for Kelantan. In 1953, he traveled to Singapore for the Nanyang University Cup, where he met KK players like Lim Chee Seng and Yong Khung Cheong from the North Borneo team. This connection led him to relocate to Kota Kinabalu, where he naturally became part of the local basketball community as a key player for the “Black and White” team.
The Black and White team was organized by Chiang Min Hsiang and remained active until it disbanded following Teng’s imprisonment in 1969.
“In those days, the KKBA was formed by a group of people who simply loved the game. We relied on pure passion; we didn’t count the cost, contributing both money and effort. Back then, referees didn’t just work for free—they often had to endure a lot of verbal abuse from the sidelines…”
The Early Days of the Sport
Teng described the competition back then as being very close and intense. A single oversight by a referee could spark a heated dispute. Notable referees of that era included Lim Chee Seng, Chia Yan San, Yong Khung Cheong, and Lee Leong Tian, with Teng himself also taking up the whistle.
He noted that in the 1930s and 40s, basketball in KK was primarily driven by clan associations, such as the Hokkien and Lung Yen Associations. It was only later that schools began training their own teams.
“I’ve seen old photos where they played on dirt courts with lines drawn in the soil,” he remarked. “The matches looked like they took place in a cloud of dust.”
A Hub for Talent
As the state capital, KK offered better facilities and became the basketball hub for the West Coast. Since neighboring small towns often only had primary schools, youths moved to KK for secondary education, concentrating talent in the city. At the time, there were even “Division A” and “Division B” teams, with promising players earning their way up to the top flight.
He pointed out that the basketball craze was more intense in the 50s and 60s compared to today, largely because there were fewer entertainment options. Almost every Chinese youth played the game.
Before the KK Community Hall was built, the primary court was an outdoor one near the Tanjung Aru Racecourse (now the Sabah Turf Club premises).
While schools had their own courts, major tournaments were always held at this neutral ground.
“Looking back, I still feel a great sense of joy. We had a group of like-minded friends working together to promote the sport. Seeing the younger generation take over the KKBA is a comfort to us, because we truly gave our all on a purely voluntary basis,” he said, noting that they often had to pay out of their own pockets on top of fundraising.
The Honor of the Game
Traveling for competitions was an arduous task; players would often spend five days on a boat.
“There were no allowances back then, and no ‘superstar’ attitudes. In fact, we had to pay to play! Players never even thought about money; being selected as a representative was a huge honor. Representing KK proved your skills had reached a certain level.”
Regarding the rivalry between Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and Tawau, Teng noted that the three regions were evenly matched, with victories frequently trading hands. He emphasized that basketball is never about a single person or team dominating; it relies on team spirit. Furthermore, the development of basketball in Sabah cannot rely on just one district being strong.
Advice for the Future
“The development of the sport depends on the passion of the leaders. You need that ‘spirit’ to lead a group of people seriously. If you only provide financial sponsorship without involvement, the results will be limited.” He urged for more competitions, more exposure abroad, and a focus on school-level development.
Teng also noted how modern players have the advantage of television to learn new moves. “In our day, we could only listen to the radio and try to imagine how the foreigners were playing!”
Character and Respect
As a former player who earned great respect on the court, Teng believes a truly great player must possess both skill and character. “Only with both can one earn true respect.”
He observed that many young players today lack respect for the game, appearing “disheveled” with untucked jerseys or untied shoelaces. This leaves a poor impression on the audience. He believes training should not just be about drills, but about teaching players how to conduct themselves, pointing to NBA greats as examples of mature skill coupled with respectable character.
His final advice to players was to be “cautious in speech and swift in action,” maintaining a clean playing style. “Fouls are part of the game, but you shouldn’t be out there looking for a fight.”
He concluded by stressing that the Basketball Association must take responsibility for cultivating good character. They must be strict and not allow skilled players to act like divas.
“Because basketball is played by five people, not one.”
@篮总会徽创始人
亚庇篮总的会徽曾在各种大小场合出现过，有很多穿着亚庇队球衣的球员，都认识这个创意十足的会徽，但我们这一代有多少人知道这个会徽的出处呢？
尽管理事们曾听闻这个会徽的来源，但却没有完整的记录及资料，为了找出历史的真相，亚庇篮总主席冯春发带领着理事们，浩浩荡荡展开了＂寻访会徽＂旅程，在一个下午，我们终于见到了这位前任亚庇篮总代主席拿督陈瑞孚，大家一起畅谈了篮总的种种事迹及会徽的来源。
据拿督陈瑞孚指出，虽然亚庇篮总已在五十代末创立起来，但是却从来没有什么会徽之类，直到一九六六至六七年期间，他才展开了构思亚庇篮总会徽的念头。
他说，当时只想在英文字母中找些点子，结果把＂K＂设计成篮框，旁有篮圈与一粒篮球，构成了一个简单又精美的设计，对新一辈的人说，时至今日依然不觉得这个设计有落伍之感，若不忆述此事，很多人都不知道原来它经有逾四十年的悠久历史。
这个会徽被篮总接纳之后，就正式印制在1968年出征沙巴杯的亚庇男队球衣及外套上，或许就在这个会徽的祝福下，当时由陈瑞孚执掌兵符下首夺冠军归，更充份显示了这个会徽的历史价值。
他说，那个时代为了备战赛事，球衣都是他一手包办，从印制会徽到球衣号码，都是一件一件＂上漆＂，后来他也把这些技术传承给其他人之后，自己也不干这些事了。
他回忆说，他于1969年成为亚庇篮总代主席，是因为那个时候，主席邓松青被请去＂咖喱饭＂（入狱），而身为副主席的他惟有暂代主席职，一年后才交棒给改故的陈玉发，＂当时的政治环境，若由反对党人仕接掌主席，对篮总的发展大有影响，所以我们只好接受建议退而居次。＂
据他指出，当年的篮总亦有得到金钱的资助来举办活动。
他笑说，代主席的他搞过最＂坏＂之事，就是判处两支球队坐球监，由教练到球员都受到严厉的惩罚，＂事缘于一位球员的身份问题，引起了另支球队的不满，他们在现场撕烂锦旗，结果我只好让他们都坐球监！＂
他也自称是位难搞之人，但常要担保一些难搞球员，因为有关脾气不佳球员常在比赛期间搞事，所以篮总要他为这个人作保后才可下场，这位球员知道由他来出脸担保，也只好乖乖打球不闹事。
同时，拿督陈瑞孚亦是篮总裁判发展上扮演过重要的角色，除了是位有经验的裁判，亦称为理论裁判，当年常在报章上笔战，与人讨论裁判的判决及观点。
他声称，为了亚庇篮总的将来，必须要顾虑裁判的发展，以便整个篮运相辅相成地成长起来。
The Creator of the KKBA Logo
The logo of the Kota Kinabalu Basketball Association (KKBA) has appeared at countless events over the decades. While many players wearing the KK jersey recognize this creative emblem, how many of our generation know its true origin?
Although committee members had heard rumors regarding its source, no complete records existed. To uncover the historical truth, KKBA Chairman Fung Chun Fatt led a delegation of committee members on a “Logo Quest.” One afternoon, they finally met with the former Acting Chairman of the KKBA, Datuk Tan Sui Fu, to discuss the association’s history and the birth of its logo.
A Design Ahead of Its Time
According to Datuk Tan Sui Fu, although the KKBA was founded in the late 1950s, it operated without an official logo for years. It wasn’t until 1966–1967 that he began conceptualizing a brand identity for the association.
He explained that his goal was to play with English lettering. He creatively transformed the letter “K” into a basketball stand, complete with a hoop and a ball. The result was a design so clean and sophisticated that even today’s generation finds it modern and relevant. Without this historical account, few would realize that this emblem is over 40 years old.
The logo was officially adopted and first printed on the jerseys and jackets of the KK Men’s Team for the 1968 Sabah Cup. Perhaps bolstered by the “blessing” of this new symbol, the team—led by Tan himself—clinched the championship title, cementing the logo’s historical significance.
Hand-Painted History
Datuk Tan recalled that in those days, preparing for a tournament meant being a “jack-of-all-trades.” He personally handled the team’s apparel, meticulously hand-painting the logo and jersey numbers onto each kit one by one. Eventually, he passed these technical skills on to others and stepped back from the manual labor.
He recalled becoming the Acting Chairman of the KKBA in 1969. This transition occurred when the then-Chairman, Teng Song Chen, was “invited to eat curry rice” (a local euphemism for being imprisoned). As Vice Chairman, Tan stepped up to lead for a year before handing the reins to the late Tan Nguk Fatt.
“Given the political climate of the time, if an opposition figure had taken the chairmanship, it would have hindered the association’s development. Therefore, we accepted the suggestion to take a back seat,” he explained.
He also noted that the association did receive some financial subsidies to host activities during that era.
The “Enforcer” and the Mentor
With a smile, Datuk Tan admitted that the “harshest” thing he did as Acting Chairman was banning two entire teams. The incident involved both coaches and players being severely penalized.
“It started with a dispute over a player’s eligibility, which angered the opposing team. They ended up tearing the championship pennant at the venue, so I had no choice but to suspend them all!”
He also described himself as a “tough character,” yet he often stood as a guarantor for “difficult” players. Some players with hot tempers were notorious for causing trouble during matches; the association would only allow them to play if Tan personally vouched for them. Knowing he was the one putting his reputation on the line, these players would behave and focus on the game.
A Voice for the Referees
Datuk Tan Sui Fu also played a pivotal role in the development of officiating. Not only was he an experienced referee, but he was also known as a “theoretical referee.” He frequently engaged in “pen wars” in the local newspapers, debating refereeing decisions and technical viewpoints with others.
He maintains that for the future of the KKBA, the development of referees must be prioritized so that all aspects of the sport can grow in harmony.
@篮球讲究团队
本会永久名誉顾问拿督陈沛武认为，相比起他打球的50年代，现今的篮运发展肯定是比以前进步的，他欣见如今的亚庇篮球总会，一班理事积极推动与付出，不像当 年因为50年前，在财力少之余，人丁又单薄，但当时各人都是只顾付出，不问回报地去推动这项普邀被认为是华人运动的项目。
为配合亚庇篮球总会创会52周年而推出的特刊，这名前任主席接受特刊组的采访，分亨他在篮坛上的经历，并对后辈作出勉励。
曾经是我国著名高级警官的陈沛武从纪律部队退伍后，至今仍非常关爱篮运发展，并对高兴能够与大家分享篮运的历史与经验。
他透露本身最早期是在50年代参与本州的篮运，当时沙巴州还是北婆罗洲，是由一些老前辈出钱出力，来去使到北婆罗洲的篮运能够发展起来。
“那时候还是英国人的殖民地，在财力、人力都是有限，被选到北婆罗洲的代表、亚庇的代表，都是觉得荣誉。”
他指出，当年若中选成为地区代表，由于是一种荣誉，因此作为球员的，是不会诸多要求的，也没有要求任何东西的需要，荣誉被视为大于一切。
谈到全州篮赛的成行，这名英明神武的拿督透露，当年的亚庇杯发展成整个北婆罗洲各地队伍参加，是现今沙巴杯的雏型，赴会的只有几支队伍，后来由各县区派队参加渐渐茁壮成长。
“当时被选为球员，球会也只是由几位人士来支持，所以经费和财力都是很有限，所以我们去到就跟当地学校联络，住就住学校，睡就睡板凳（课室内的椅、桌），球衣球会负责，鞋是自己买，那时最好的球鞋是红墙、回力，三、五元就很贵很贵了。”
“到我记得到我孩子打球，有得时候他们穿的是Adidas、Puma，几百元一双，我们当时就是红墙、回力已经很好很好了，那是我们自己花钱去买的，跟父母拿钱，吃方面，给什么就吃什么，睡被安排在什么地方就睡哪里，没有住酒店，那时也没有什么酒店。”
“初期的北婆罗洲（沙巴州）篮运，是在很艰辛的情况之下，慢慢地把它扶持起来，我记得最初第一次北婆洲去参加婆罗洲赛，就是北婆、砂拉越跟汶莱三个国家的球赛，那时候球员各方面都自立，我们就去去拼，因为能够代表是一种荣誉，随后去打南大（南洋大学）杯，就是马来亚、新加坡跟各地，那时候南洋大学是在马来 亚，由马来亚、新加坡、北婆、砂拉越和汶莱去打南大杯，球员也是很辛苦地自己去支持，虽然领导人、球会有一些帮助，可是大体上还是一些家长给钱。”
他记得，当时船费是由球会负责，几个领导人如吴国霖，卓明道，谢耀山等这些前辈等出钱出力去派队。虽说当年有去筹钱，但筹来筹去还是这几个人在支撑。
他也透露，在根地咬的65年期间，那时是成立马来西亚以后，当地也只不过有20多间店铺，除了一间马来人的店，一间棺材店，没有多少间店，也就这些人，大 家合力各出几百元，就是这样，支持一个球队出来。 “我们就破纪录从根地咬包一架飞机去斗湖打亚庇杯（沙巴杯），是20多个座位的飞机。”
当年兼打中锋和后卫的拿督说，那时候大家都一心为着篮运，不问回报，只是为着支持篮运，大家出钱出力出时间，没有任何的条件。 “所以这班先贤，在篮运上的贡献，希望后晋不要忘记。”
他表示，今时今日的球会办得好，球员打得好，都是这班先贤创造下来，给我们塑造一个榜样。
“我从北婆罗洲时代参与下来，看到这样子，现在新一班的年轻人，出来搞篮运，他们所花很多的时间，所花很多的金钱与心机去搞篮运，希望大家在这方面能够互相合作。”
当年获政府支持
他透露，以前的政府与外国政府有着这方面的联系，比如篮球王国美国，那时候的美国新闻社曾派篮球教练到来训练球员，其本身就是受益者之一。 “那时候在50年代，来的美国篮球教练都是美国奥林匹克队教练。”
因此，他希望国家应该可以向那个时代看齐，使国家的篮运能够有个更好的前途。 “国家一定要去帮助，因为国家出那么多钱，如推动羽球、足球，可是篮球方面比较少。”
他个人认为，人们说篮球是华人的体育是不对的。
而是因为环境造成更多的华人打篮球。 “为什么大多数华人去打篮球呢，因为篮球的设备不需要很大的地方，在市镇里面小小个球场就可以打篮球了，不像足球或别 的运动需要一个很大的地方，唯有在效外，而效外大数都是土著，所以人家就说足球是土著的运动，篮球、乒乓、羽球是华人的运动，这个思想是不对的，为什么， 因为这三样运动员都是在市区的，这个活动需要的场地小，因为以前华人都住在市区，所以都是华人的子弟去参加这三项运动，可是在效外，多数是土著，所以土著 就多数去踢足球，所以人们的思想就是，打足球的就是土著，或者打篮球就是华人。我希望政府能够加倍关注，我们的部长要在这方面争取政府、国家对篮球的支 持。。。”
他以羽球和足球为例，如果国家没有去推动篮运，篮运永远不能够达到国际水准。
“为什么羽球能够达到国际水准，就是我们的国家去推动，虽然不是国家直接拨款，但是国家透过一些私人界去得到帮助，所以篮球这方面一样，以前我们篮球得到 （某香烟品牌）支持，当时我们马来西亚的篮球跟菲律宾有得打，也就是说，如果国家支持这个运动呢，就会有一个比较好的表现。”
他道出半世纪前，篮球受到普遍欢迎，是因为地方小、经济和人口都少，所以大多数消遣或去处就是打篮球，那个社会也没有卡拉OK，也没有Cyber（网络）这些东西，最经济的一种运动就是篮球。
“相比现今，则有比较多各方面的活动，不像以前比较少活动，所以一些学子年轻人一有空就会去打篮球，也就是地方少也没有什么地方可以去，所以有得打篮球，也自自然然地跟去，是一个潮流。”
拿督认为，在21句纪，篮球水平相对是较高的，但当时却比现今更为热闹，因为以前篮球支持的程度和力量要比现今高，而且竞争的气氛也是很高涨。
谈到本身领导球会时，陈沛武表示当然是有很多甜酸苦涩。但他的见解是，当一个人出来在社团上做各方面的事情，是需要承受很多的事情，当有朝一日不获社会人士支持，就该是退下的时候。当然，获得人们的支持，就继续地做下去。
他也强调，篮球是一项团队运动，各种大小事务都以团队为依归，参加比赛就是领队、教练、队长和球员为一体，有任何事情都可以沟通、提出，到外参加比赛，大家吃、住都在一起，这是一种团体的生活精神。
针对在全州赛发放津贴让球员自行解决膳食，拿督表示给钱是容易办事，无需事事安排到位，可是在整个团队上，不是一个很好的办法。
他以组队代表沙巴州为例说：“团体的精神是不可以被分散的，一分散就没有士气，一没有团队士气，我的看法就是没有队型，没有队型宗旨就不同，球员、领队、教练，为着沙巴州，不可以说这个是你的球员，那个是我的球员，没有纪律做什么都没有用。”
在访谈结束前，陈沛武总结现今他所看到的篮运发展，表示目前的篮球比他以前的篮运进步很多了，筹款时也比较多人出来支持。 “你们这一班人，我看见每个都这 么热心、积极做事情，以前搞来搞去都几个人，因为人力、财力少，现在的一些设备比我们以前好，有很多地方可以帮助篮运，很多室内场地，不需单靠亚庇民众会 堂，球员更多的机会练球。”
相较西马州属，沙巴又略为逊色，他认为是地理环境之别所造成的，沙巴地大人稀，小地方人们容易聚集，大家常常都在一起，而且小地方人们会比较合作，大地方 则比较多意见。 。 。很多人说现在的篮运没以前那么好，这个我不赞同，现在篮运当然会比我们那个时代的篮运进步很多很多，当然，要改善的地方还有。 。 。 ”
他也忠告，如果出来搞篮运，只是单纯为篮运就不会有问题，如果想利用篮球会来达到其他目的，那就应该别渗入篮运，做什么都一样。
Basketball is All About the Team
Datuk Henry Chin, a Permanent Honorary Consultant of the association, believes that basketball development today has progressed significantly compared to the 1950s. He is heartened to see the current committee of the Kota Kinabalu Basketball Association (KKBA) working so proactively. He recalls that 50 years ago, resources—both financial and human—were extremely scarce. Despite this, everyone involved was driven by a spirit of selfless contribution, promoting what was then widely regarded as a “Chinese sport” without expecting anything in return.
In this interview for the 52nd Anniversary Commemorative Publication, the former Chairman shared his experiences on the court and offered words of encouragement to the younger generation. As a former high-ranking senior police officer, Datuk Chin remains passionate about the sport’s growth even after retiring from the disciplinary forces.
The Era of North Borneo
Datuk Henry first became involved in basketball in the 1950s, when Sabah was still known as North Borneo. In those days, the sport relied on the financial and physical support of a few dedicated seniors.
“Back then, under British colonial rule, funds and manpower were limited. Being selected as a representative for North Borneo or Kota Kinabalu was considered a supreme honor.”
He noted that because representing one’s region was such a prestigious feat, players never made demands. Honor was valued above all else. He also revealed that the current Sabah Cup evolved from the early “KK Cup,” which originally featured only a few teams before growing into a statewide tournament.
Datuk Henry painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by early players:
Accommodations: “Teams were supported by just a few individuals. We would contact local schools at our destination and sleep on wooden benches or desks in the classrooms.”
Gear: “The association provided the jerseys, but we bought our own shoes. The best brands then were Red Wall and Warrior. At three to five dollars a pair, they were considered very, very expensive.”
The Contrast: “By the time my children were playing, they had Adidas and Puma shoes costing hundreds of dollars. In my day, we saved up our own money or asked our parents for a few dollars just for basic shoes. We ate whatever was provided and slept wherever we were told—there were no hotels back then.”
The first Borneo Games (between North Borneo, Sarawak, and Brunei) and the Nanyang University Cup (involving Malaya and Singapore) required immense sacrifice. While leaders and clubs helped where they could, parents often footed the bill to keep their children’s dreams alive.
Breaking Records and Sacrificing for the Game
He recalled leaders like Ng Kwok Lin, Cheuk Ming To, and Chia Yan San, who consistently dipped into their own pockets. During his time in Keningau around 1965—shortly after the formation of Malaysia—the town had only about 20 shops.
“Everyone chipped in a few hundred dollars to support the team. We actually broke a record by chartering a 20-seat plane from Keningau to Tawau just to compete in the Sabah Cup.”
Datuk Henry, who played both Center and Guard, emphasized that the pioneers set a standard of unconditional devotion. “I hope the younger generation never forgets the contributions of these predecessors.”
Correcting Misconceptions
Datuk Tan noted that in the 1950s, the government had stronger international ties in sports. The US Information Service even sent US Olympic coaches to train local players—a program from which he personally benefited. He hopes the current government will provide similar high-level support.
He also addressed the stereotype that basketball is purely a “Chinese sport.”
“People think basketball is for Chinese and football is for Bumiputeras, but that is a misconception born of environment. Basketball, table tennis, and badminton became popular in urban areas because they require very little space. Since Chinese communities were concentrated in the cities, their children naturally played those sports. Conversely, football requires large fields usually found in the outskirts where Bumiputera communities live.”
He urged the government to treat basketball with the same level of investment as badminton or football, noting that when Malaysia had consistent corporate sponsorship in the past, the national team was competitive enough to challenge regional powerhouses like the Philippines.
The Essence of Teamwork
Reflecting on the 21st century, Datuk Henry observed that while the technical level of play is higher now, the “atmosphere” was more vibrant in the past because basketball was the primary social outlet in an age before Karaoke or the Internet.
On leadership, he admitted there were “bittersweet moments,” but his philosophy remained simple: Serve as long as you have the community’s support; step down when you do not.
He is a firm believer that basketball is the ultimate team sport:
Unity: Managers, coaches, and players must act as one.
Discipline: He criticized the practice of giving players allowances to settle their own meals during tournaments. “Team spirit cannot be fragmented. If you eat and live separately, you lose morale and team structure. Whether you are a player, manager, or coach, you are there for Sabah—not for yourself.”
Final Words of Wisdom
As the interview concluded, Datuk Henry praised the current state of the association, noting the improved facilities and the abundance of indoor courts which provide players with more training opportunities.
His parting advice was a stern reminder of integrity:”If you get involved in basketball, do it purely for the sport. If you intend to use the association for other purposes, you should stay away. In everything you do, stay true to the game.”
@须坚持学校篮运
亚庇顾问卓权兴，从一个不是从篮球开始运动生涯的孩子，到最终担任过多个地区篮球会主席的领袖，至经与篮球运动仍是分隔不了，依然那么热爱，那么地关心着这个过去半个世纪以来，他极积参与的球类运动。
配合曾经付出过不少心血汗水的亚庇篮总踏入52周年，卓权兴娓娓道来他涉足篮运半个世纪的点滴。
由于过去的资料整理不当，一些历史难以考究，但卓权兴可说是沙巴篮坛一部活的资料库，一些发生过的事情，这名外表看来严肃，但实际上却和蔼可亲前辈，都可从他的记忆里掏出，与后辈分享。
卓权兴相信是国内担任过最多地区球会主席的篮球狂热份子，也曾是沙巴、彭亨会长，大马篮总副会长，并且是亚洲篮总理事会成员。
他告诉特刊采访组，本身小时并不是打篮球的，而是活跃于最擅长是100、200米赛跑和跳远。
然而，因为一次的训练中，被巴士伤，导致脚部没力，从此离开了田径场。
受伤期间，卓权兴闲时就跑到篮球场，由于本身并不会打球，所以只能在场边当观众，由于哥哥卓权光是代表亚庇的篮球健将，因此他从小也就喜欢观赏篮球。
在耳濡目染下，卓权兴开始学习打球。 15岁时，有一次被一名中华学校的老师看到了他在打球，而且发现他不会投篮，只会上篮，而且速度很快，到了16岁，这名老师与跟一名美国人，开始教导卓权兴打球。
1960年，卓权兴16岁时就被选为代表亚庇参加霍恩杯，当年的战友包括郑和西等人，大伙都喜爱在亚庇中华学校练球，随后组队参加赛事。当时的队伍是甘青（Kampung Youth）。
卓权兴指出，从1960年至1962年本身都是代表亚庇篮总的球队，63年出外念书才停了下来，当中61和62年，他都被选为北婆罗洲（沙巴）代表，但最终都没有前往披上这件战衣。
念完书后，卓权兴回到沙巴就往山打根工作，在当地依然继续打球，但都没有代表山打根。
1968年回来亚庇，卓权兴当起了神鹰俱乐部的教练，也参与了亚庇篮球总会，当时从68到73年，众人都知道神鹰统治了地方性球赛，少年队更是实力强盛。 1971年，亚庇篮总没有派队参加少年杯，因而由神鹰派队代表亚庇。
1970年代期间，身为关税局官员的卓权兴被调往西马任职，离开了亚庇篮坛。
由于工作关系，1976年他又被调去斗湖任职，1978年当上斗湖篮协主席，也在当地执起了教鞭，专于于女队。 “我的球队在1978拿沙巴冠军。”
亚庇篮总主席冯春发带领理事们礼貌拜会卓权兴，讨教当年的往事时摄。
1980年调回亚庇，当时眼见亚庇篮总不是很健康，所以在当年7月，就拿起了亚庇篮总主席这个职位。
那时候，卓权兴还是斗湖主席，在1980年某月，他在斗湖主持一项会议后，辞去该会主席职，决定拯救亚庇篮总，当起了主席，直到1985或1986年间，他又调去往彭亨，1987年当起了关丹篮协主席。
1988年他更上一层楼，当上彭亨篮总会长至1992年，也是大马篮总副会长，在西马做很久了，辗转之间他当大马篮总副会长之位一直到1997。
1997回到山打根，当时候他仍是大马篮总副会长，1998大马篮总改选，由于不是任何州属会长，因此不能够续任副会长之职，但具有一定影响力的他，被委以誉副会长。 “2000年，我拿沙巴篮总（会长）。到
现在我都没有什么搞篮运，已经不太活跃。 。 。但我还是亚庇篮总顾问，沙巴篮总顾问。 ”
数十年一路走来，篮坛是让卓权兴感到最开心的地方。 “因为在大马篮总当副会长的时候，我也是会长理事会的一员，也代表大马篮总去开亚洲篮总的会议，我也是理事成员，十多年当这个职位，开会什么我都去，很开心，因为自己本人很喜欢篮球。”
1990开始大马篮总在做女子队的管理工作，卓权兴也有参与。 “他们去外国训练我都要跟去，做到1997年回来。”
谈到亚庇篮运水平一度走入低潮，卓权兴透露，其实早期的亚庇篮球队并不弱，而且拿了很多次冠军。
就如在1959年沙巴杯开放，斗湖、拿笃、山打根、仙本那都可以参加，当年是斗湖冠军，1960年是亚庇就登顶了冠军，那时候卓权兴就是冠军队的一份子。而神鹰也代表西海岸拿很多次冠军。
他还记得，1971年亚庇女队本也可以拿冠军，但因为一些赛制的漏洞，在斗湖与山打根的一场比赛，出现打假球的情况，导致最终亚庇只
能得到亚军，当时亚庇队已经很强了。随后到了丹南带回冠军。
至于离开到西马之后，亚庇篮坛的进展，卓权兴就不甚了解。
看到亚庇篮总今时今日的发展，卓权兴认为本会如今是走在正确的轨道上面，认为本会的青训工作做得很好，就如他当斗湖篮协主席时，所做的年轻球员发展工作如出一辙。
“亚庇篮总现在走的路线是很好的，意思是他们一定要朝学校来提拔篮运，以前我们做的时候，我们有去发展，离开时可能他们没什么发展。我们做的时候，目标是 要弄好亚庇、沙巴篮总，因为那时候沙巴篮总很乱，我们的目标是要设法去把它搞好，办好整个沙巴的篮运，不单单只是亚庇，所以我们就没专注到亚庇，不是说我 们没有做工，是没有专注到。”
“这两年来我看到亚庇篮总，他们所做的工作，是很好，我的梦想是提伍打造成更强，他们现在就做着了，他们搞的那个方向是对的，提拔年轻的。”
卓权兴给予亚庇篮总后辈的建议是，应该要提拔教练，朝这方做好。 “希望他们还可以像我们那时，把教练推向学校。”
他认为，现在较吃亏的是，每个教练教的方法不同，这是问题的存在，有必要统一所有教练教球的方式。 “以前我们全部用神鹰的教练，教一样的东西，现在就要看亚庇篮总如何做到，不管是建国，崇正，拉沙，让他们的球都打得一致，让任何球员上去都能打，方法一样。”
Commitment to School-Level Development
KKBA Consultant Vincent Chok began his sporting life far from the basketball court, yet he eventually rose to lead multiple regional basketball associations. Today, his passion for the sport remains as fervent as ever, fueled by over half a century of active involvement and deep concern for its future.
On the occasion of the KKBA’s 52nd anniversary, Uncle Chok reflects on fifty years of blood, sweat, and tears dedicated to the game. While some historical records have been lost over time, Chok serves as a “living archive” for Sabah basketball. Behind his serious exterior lies a warm and approachable elder, ready to share a lifetime of memories with the next generation.
A Turn of Fate
Chok revealed that he did not start out as a basketball player; in his youth, he was a track and field athlete specializing in the 100m and 200m sprints and the long jump. However, a bus accident during training injured his leg, forcing him to leave the track forever.
During his recovery, he spent his time at the basketball courts. Though he didn’t know how to play yet, he loved watching the game—especially since his brother, Chok Khoon Kong, was a star player representing Kota Kinabalu.
At 15, a teacher from Chung Hwa School noticed him. He observed that while Chok didn’t know how to shoot, his layups were exceptionally fast. By 16, that teacher and an American coach began formalizing his training. In 1960, at age 16, Chok was selected to represent KK in the Hone Cup, playing alongside teammates like Tay Ho She for the “Kampung Youth” team.
A Career Across States and Borders
Chok’s involvement in basketball leadership is perhaps the most extensive in the country:
1960–1962: Represented KKBA and was twice selected for the North Borneo (Sabah) state team.
1968: Returned to KK to coach the Blue Eagle Club, a powerhouse that dominated local leagues and youth tournaments through 1973.
1978: While stationed in Tawau as a customs officer, he became Chairman of the Tawau Basketball Association, coaching their women’s team to a state championship that same year.
1980: Returned to KK and took over as Chairman to “rescue” the KKBA during a period of instability.
1987–1992: Moved to West Malaysia and served as Chairman of the Kuantan Basketball Association, eventually becoming President of the Pahang Basketball Association and Vice President of the Malaysian Basketball Federation (MABA).
1997–Present: Returned to Sabah, serving as a Permanent Honorary Vice President of MABA and later President of the Sabah Basketball Association (SBA) in 2000.
“The basketball world is where I’ve been happiest,” Chok remarked. For over a decade, he represented Malaysia at Asian Basketball Confederation (ABC) meetings as a board member and managed the Malaysian National Women’s Team during their overseas training stints in the 1990s.
Restoring the Glory Days
Addressing the periods of “low tide” in KK basketball, Chok noted that KK was historically very strong. He was part of the 1960 championship team that reached the summit of the Sabah Cup.
Regarding the current state of the KKBA, Chok believes the association is back on the right track. He particularly praised their focus on youth development, which mirrors the successful model he used in Tawau years ago.
“The current direction of the KKBA is excellent—they are focusing on schools to elevate the sport. In the past, our goal was to fix the internal chaos of the Sabah Basketball Association and improve the sport statewide. Because we were focused on the entire state, we couldn’t always give KK our undivided attention. These past two years, I see the KKBA realizing my dream of building a stronger foundation by prioritizing the youth.”
Advice for the Future: Unified Coaching
Chok’s primary advice for the next generation is to focus on coach development.
“I hope they can do what we did—push qualified coaches into the schools,” he suggested. He pointed out a current disadvantage: every coach has a different methodology, which creates inconsistency.
“In the past, we used Blue Eagle coaches who all taught the same system. KKBA needs to find a way to unify coaching methods across schools like Kian Kok, Tshung Tsin, and La Salle. That way, any player who steps up to the representative level will be playing from the same playbook, with the same fundamentals.”
@勇往直前拼佳绩
亚庇篮总在沙巴重拾辉煌，黄有联带领着一班热血理事，付出了超过10年的时间，过程中所面对的，着实非一般人们所可以承受。
黄有联接手亚庇篮总之初的90年代初期，当年一地方性赛事，尤其是少年级别的赛事，参赛反应并不如今天般热烈，随着不断努力宣传，走访学校邀请参赛，之后逐年增加参赛队伍。
如今亚庇篮坛欣欣向荣，黄有联当年挺身而出去领导这个球会，从低潮到高潮，有人看作是英雄造时势，或许有人认为是时势造英雄。
黄有联在推进亚庇篮运的工作上，他所付出和贡献的，是不能磨灭、不能被否定的。
“岂能尽如人意，但求无愧我心”这句话套在黄有联领导亚庇篮总时最贴切不过，过程中，面对一些人士的批评、指责在所难免，但这名生于拿笃的篮球狂热份子，并没有理会，只要认为对球会有利的，他会极力争取，有损球会利益的，不时蓄着胡子的黄有联，绝不妥协。
在球会的利益上，黄有联永远捉紧自己的宗旨，有时候得罪一些人都在所不惜，有着坚定的意志。
以这样的态度领导球会，有的时候或许会出现磨擦，而且批评的人很多，但认同的可不少，在获得大家的支持下，亚庇篮总渐渐茁壮成长，也受赞助商青睐，主办的赛事越来越多，累积的经验越来越丰富。
配合亚庇篮总52周年庆典，黄有联接受特刊组的访问时指出，亚庇队当年，90年代初至90年代中期，从一支中游队伍，在短短几年的时间，已经崛起成为州内数一数二的队伍，多次勇闯决赛，到后来更是发展到不夺冠军就是失败的辉煌。
黄有联在领导亚庇篮总10年之后一度退位，但4年之后重作冯妇再次负起领导亚庇篮总的责任，这时候，亚庇的篮球更已经是发展到在全州赛不夺冠军就是失败的强势，而愿意重新担任主席，都是他对篮球那份热爱。
他第2次出任主席之时，为了亚庇篮运发展的长远计划，引合未来篮运走势，与的张立铮策划和拟定了主办亚庇联赛的方案，结果获得亚洲城产业发展有限公司鼎力赞助，就此诞生了ACPD亚洲城杯亚庇篮球联赛。此赛会常规赛由本土球员比拼，季后赛则每队需聘用两名东南亚外援加盟助阵，借以透过更高水平赛事提升本土球员技艺。
黄有联领导球会期间，曾经办过2次国际篮球邀请赛，引进高水平的赛事，激发市民对篮球的兴趣，期望吹起篮球热潮之余，也为球会筹款充作活动经费。
印象之中，黄有联不是那种身为主席就高高在上的领袖，在面对正经事务时，他会认真指挥，而私下与众理事的交情却是良好的。在篮球圈里，他不单只是一位主席，同时会担任教练，其至球赛进行时会戴上哨子，成为球场判官。
曾当沙巴篮总执行主席的黄有联，其最强调纪律的精神获得不少家长的认同，渐渐放心让孩子们参加亚庇的篮球赛事。随后，他更带动很多家长，与孩子们一同参加篮运，让家长们到场馆欣赏自己孩子的比赛。 可以说，他把普遍被认为是坏孩子运动的亚庇篮坛，成功扭转为健康的体育休闲活动。
提到最辉煌的事，黄有联对 1999年亚庇在16岁以下全州赛称霸男子组，而以亚庇队为班底组织州队参加林文泽（全国16岁以下篮赛）印象深刻。
当年，这支队伍就在自家门前，首夺林文泽杯的优质人才，就是从Spritzer杯（前身为益康杯和必胜杯）所发掘出来。
Spritzer杯可说是黄有联掌舵亚庇篮总时，所创造出最有价值的一个地方性少年赛事，他直言，当年是在郭叫龙先先的穿针引线下，获得义利贸易有限公司赞助。这项赛会至今每年仍在热热闹闹地进行。 除此之外，当时曾经出现的Molten杯（18岁以下）更创先河以联赛方式，在每个周末开打，每队以主客场制度进行两回合的批拼。
公开赛方面，打了8届的虎标金杯至今仍让人津津乐道，当年为了掀起亚庇的篮球热潮，黄有联鼓吹参赛队伍聘请亚庇以外的猛将亮相，包括陈其贤、黄大安、曾发强、蔡瑞利、叶宇南等国家队黄金一代，而其本身队伍则聘用砂拉越猛将，使赛会更添看头。
黄有联说，亚庇篮总走向辉煌，并不是他一个人的功劳，若当期时没有得到理事们的配合与谅解，他一个人是难以办到的。
他表示，人生高低起落是必经之路，在这个过程中，最重要对得起自己良心，认为对的，就要勇往直前。 “非常感谢赞助商的信任、支持，没有人出钱支持，有再好的人力作为后盾，也是难以前进的。”
值得一提的是，现今仍在进行，每年由亚庇、美里、纳闽和汶莱参加和轮值主办的婆罗洲杯赛，也是黄有联在位期间，与各地领袖共同构思创办的，由最初为了联系四地领袖情感而催生，发展到后来除公开组外，还有宿将组和女子组，让一班上了年纪的篮球爱好者，仍有一展所场，发挥球艺的场合。
如今，作为亚庇篮总永久名誉主席的黄有联认为，该会已走在了正确的轨道上高歌猛进、在沙巴州内可谓茁壮成长的一个球会，因此，已是时候把目光放得更远，冲出亚庇，引领整个沙巴州突破。
“今天的亚庇（篮总）夫复何求，你们还需要亚庇做些什么东西？所以，亚庇必须要冲出去。把目光放得更远，而不是停留在自己的球会上了。” 时移事异，黄有联当年必须把重点放在亚庇篮总，着手重振这个球会，如今，该会稳健成长，因此他认为，该会已经可以把重心向外扩展。
“因为当初我的出发点是在亚庇，老实讲，今天的亚庇，夫复何求，你还需要亚庇在做什么东西？所以，亚庇必须要冲出去。现在的形势是，打（代表）亚庇就是光荣，打赢亚庇就是冠军。只是在亚庇发展，我觉得很局限。不像我当年那样，亚庇是给人家压着来打，所以那时要跟他们（其他球会）对拼。现在我们不需要跟他们对拼了嘛。。。我们要冲出去（沙巴）跟人家（别州）拼。
“现在是要怎样去把沙巴篮总组织起来，去跟西马打出一个春天，因为我觉得阿发（冯春发），他的前景不只是亚庇怎样了，而是沙巴怎样了，但我的意思绝对不是要亚庇去接任沙巴篮总。。。而是看大家能够如何配合。
他表示本身曾当过沙巴篮总执行主席，发现到母会存在的最严重问题是各自为政，因此他希望冯春发勇敢地跟一班理事，把他不能够完成的东西去完成，使大家合作搞沙巴篮总，把沙巴篮球队培训地更强。
“尽量跟所有的球会，把这个篮运发展得更好，这是我的期望。。。如果亚庇篮总领导沙巴篮总，也必须走出旧有的框框，需要与各地配合，因为并非最好的球员都在亚庇，其他球会也有杰出人才，大家该摒弃旧有思想，共同栽培沙巴的球员。”
他说：“拿起沙巴篮总有一个忠告，在还没有拿之前，要放得开，不要只是想着亚庇篮总，如果有这个想法，整个沙巴也是完了。”
@Forging Ahead Toward Greater Glory
As the Kota Kinabalu Basketball Association rose again to prominence in Sabah, Wong Yu Len led a passionate group of committee members who devoted more than a decade of hard work and sacrifice. The challenges they faced throughout the journey were far beyond what ordinary people could endure.
When Wong Yu Len first took over the KKBA in the early 1990s, participation in local tournaments—especially youth competitions—was nowhere near as enthusiastic as it is today. Through relentless promotion efforts and visits to schools to invite participation, the number of teams gradually increased year after year.
Today, the basketball scene in Kota Kinabalu is thriving. Wong Yu Len stepped forward to lead the association during its difficult years, guiding it from a low point to great success. Some may say heroes create the times, while others believe the times create heroes.
There is no denying or erasing Wong Yu Len’s dedication and contributions toward advancing basketball development in Kota Kinabalu.
The phrase, “One cannot satisfy everyone, but one must live with a clear conscience,” perfectly describes Wong Yu Len’s leadership during his tenure with KKBA. Criticism and accusations from certain individuals were unavoidable along the way, but this basketball enthusiast from Lahad Datu paid little attention to them. If he believed something would benefit the association, he fought hard for it. If it harmed the association’s interests, the often bearded Wong Yu Len would never compromise.
When it came to the interests of the association, Wong always held firmly to his principles, even if it meant offending certain people. His determination was unwavering.
Leading the association with such an approach naturally created friction at times, and criticism was plentiful. Yet many also supported and recognized his efforts. With collective support, KKBA steadily grew stronger, attracted sponsors, organized more tournaments, and accumulated valuable experience.
In conjunction with KKBA’s 52nd Anniversary celebration, Wong Yu Len said in an interview with the commemorative publication team that during the early to mid-1990s, the Kota Kinabalu team transformed from a mid-level side into one of the top teams in Sabah within just a few years. They repeatedly reached state finals and eventually developed a culture where failing to win the championship was considered a disappointment.
After leading KKBA for ten years, Wong Yu Len once stepped down from the presidency. However, four years later, he returned to shoulder the responsibility again. By then, Kota Kinabalu basketball had already reached a dominant stage where not winning the state championship was deemed failure. His willingness to return as president was driven purely by his deep passion for basketball.
During his second term as president, Wong and Chang Lip Cheng formulated a long-term development plan aligned with future basketball trends, including the establishment of the Kota Kinabalu Basketball League. With strong sponsorship support from ACPD Asian City Development Sdn Bhd, the ACPD Asian City Cup Kota Kinabalu Basketball League was born.
The league featured local players during the regular season, while each team was required to recruit two Southeast Asian imports for the playoffs. The aim was to elevate the skill level of local players through exposure to higher-level competition.
During Wong’s leadership, KKBA also organized two international basketball invitation tournaments, bringing high-level competitions to the city. These events aimed to spark public interest in basketball, create a basketball craze, and raise funds for the association’s activities.
Wong Yu Len was never the type of president who placed himself above others. In official matters, he was serious and commanding, but privately he maintained close friendships with fellow committee members. Within basketball circles, he was not only a president but also served as a coach, and during games he would even wear a whistle and officiate as a referee.
Having once served as Executive Chairman of the Sabah Basketball Association, Wong strongly emphasized discipline, earning the trust and approval of many parents. Gradually, parents became more willing to allow their children to participate in basketball competitions in Kota Kinabalu.
He also encouraged many parents to become involved in basketball alongside their children, bringing them to stadiums to watch games. It can be said that he successfully transformed Kota Kinabalu basketball—from what was once commonly perceived as a “bad kids’ sport”—into a healthy and wholesome sporting activity.
When speaking of his proudest achievement, Wong fondly recalled Kota Kinabalu’s triumph in the boys’ category of the 1999 Sabah Under-16 Championship. The KK team later formed the backbone of the Sabah state team for the Lim Wen Siew Cup (National Under-16 Championship).
That same team went on to win the Lim Wen Siew Cup for the first time on home ground. Many of those talented players had first been discovered through the Spritzer Cup
.
The Spritzer Cup was perhaps one of the most valuable grassroots youth tournaments established during Wong Yu Len’s era. He openly acknowledged that the sponsorship from Yee Lee Trading Co. Ltd. was secured through the efforts of the late Philip Kok. To this day, the tournament continues to be held annually with great enthusiasm.
In addition, the Molten Cup (Under-18) was another groundbreaking competition at the time. It adopted a league format, with matches played every weekend under a home-and-away system over two rounds.
In the open category, the Tiger Gold Cup—held for eight editions—remains memorable to many. To ignite basketball fever in Kota Kinabalu, Wong encouraged participating teams to recruit star players from outside the city, including national golden generation players such as Chan Kee Yin, Wong Tai Onn, Tsang Fatt Keong, Chai Sui Lee, and Yap Yu Nan. Wong’s own team also hired top Sarawak players, making the tournament even more exciting.
Wong Yu Len emphasized that KKBA’s rise to glory was never his achievement alone. Without the cooperation and understanding of the committee members during that period, he could never have accomplished it by himself.
He said that life inevitably comes with ups and downs, but throughout the process, the most important thing is to stay true to one’s conscience and move courageously toward what one believes is right.
“I am deeply grateful for the trust and support of our sponsors. Without financial backing, even the best manpower and dedication would struggle to move forward.”
It is also worth mentioning that the Borneo Cup, which continues to this day with participation and rotating hosting duties among Kota Kinabalu, Miri, Labuan, and Brunei, was conceptualized during Wong’s tenure together with basketball leaders from various regions. Initially created to strengthen friendships among leaders from the four territories, it later expanded beyond the Open category to include Veterans and Women’s categories, allowing older basketball enthusiasts to continue showcasing their passion and skills.
Today, as Permanent Honorary President of KKBA, Wong believes the association is already on the right track and has become one of Sabah’s strongest and fastest-growing basketball organizations. Therefore, he feels the time has come for KKBA to set its sights beyond Kota Kinabalu and help lead Sabah basketball to greater heights.
“What more could today’s KKBA ask for? What else do you still need KKBA to do? KKBA must move beyond Kota Kinabalu. We need to broaden our vision instead of focusing only on our own association.”
Times have changed. Back then, Wong had to focus entirely on rebuilding KKBA from the ground up. Now that the association is stable and flourishing, he believes it is ready to expand its focus outward.
“Back then my starting point was Kota Kinabalu. Honestly speaking, today’s KKBA has already achieved so much. So KKBA must move forward. Today, representing KKBA is an honor, and defeating KKBA is considered a championship in itself. If we only develop within Kota Kinabalu, it becomes too limiting.
“In my time, KKBA was always being suppressed by stronger teams, so we had to fight hard against other associations. Now, we no longer need to fight among ourselves. We need to step out into Sabah and compete against stronger opponents from other states.”
He added:“The challenge now is how to unite the Sabah Basketball Association and compete with Peninsular Malaysia to create a brighter future. I believe Ah Fatt (Fung Chun Fatt) is not only thinking about KKBA’s future, but Sabah basketball as a whole. But I do not mean that KKBA should take over Sabah Basketball Association leadership—it is about how everyone can work together.”
Having once served as Executive Chairman of the Sabah Basketball Association, Wong said the greatest problem he observed within the parent body was fragmentation and lack of unity. Therefore, he hopes Fung Chun Fatt and his committee members will courageously accomplish what he himself could not complete—bringing everyone together to strengthen Sabah basketball and build a stronger state team.
“My hope is for all associations to work together to develop basketball further. Even if KKBA were to lead Sabah Basketball Association one day, it must break away from old thinking and cooperate with all regions. Not all the best players are in Kota Kinabalu—other associations also have outstanding talents. We must abandon outdated mindsets and nurture Sabah’s players together.”
He concluded with this advice:“If you ever take up leadership of Sabah Basketball Association, remember this: before taking the position, you must learn to let go. Don’t think only about KKBA. If that mentality exists, then Sabah basketball as a whole will also fail.”
@搞篮运须注册制度
从亚庇篮总创会五十多年直今的比赛成绩来看，无可否认的是，最辉煌的时代是始于廿一世纪初，当时是由本地著名殷商拿督吴添泉接任主席，他把新的元素及领导方式注入球会，开创了篮总一个新的纪元，配合今年的创会五十二周年庆典，非常难得抽出了宝贵的时间接受专访，与篮总理事们分享了往事及篮总前景的心得。
他说，早年在警界的时候曾是球员代表，不过后来开始涉足篮球组织，是在陈俊杰穿针引线下，当时陈氏安排的Legend球队参加兵南邦篮协的比赛，碰巧又遇上该球会无人领导，在李良田游说下，一切机缘巧合担任了两届兵南邦篮协主席，上了轨道后才交回给当地的理事。
他继指出，同样的于2003年开始接掌亚庇篮总主席，亦是Legend球队，当时陈俊杰是其伙伴，教练则是王飞虎，他笑称也就如此与篮坛结下了不解之缘！
曾领导了篮总四年的他不讳言，篮总有一批热心的理事，是不容置疑的，虽然经济条件并不许可，但也愿意出力把篮总支撑起来，而且大家都能合作愉快，大部份都不会斤斤计较。
他强调，亚庇篮总所须应付的球赛实在太多，除了县区性的选拔赛，亦要出征全州赛，甚至偶尔代表参加全国赛，搞得一年到头都要安排比赛，简直非一般人所能应付得来，所以身为理事多少都有贡献，而领导层也要承受相当的压力。
因此，他表示，在执掌主席前两年尚可应付繁重的球会事务，但晋入第二届甫接手新公司而担心与篮运脱节才交托于他人。
＂不过，亚庇篮总的四年里最值得回味的是，冠军杯特别多！甫接手球会参加的第一项全州赛（十八岁以下）就有冠军拿！＂
他说，当时亚庇篮总能够走出一个新的春天，就是开始设法减少纠纷，采取＂鼓励多打球，不要搞事非＂的政策，不太理会球员背弃的问题，＂其实人人都想代表亚庇，因为是大球会，但对球员来说，若球会或教练之间有磨擦就很容易闹情绪。＂
也因为在这个包容的大环境气氛下，热爱篮球运动的学生也逐渐增多，已不再是两三家学校有球队而己，其他学校的球队也冒 出头来！因此他认为篮总必须继续鼓励学校的篮运发展。他也赞赏秘书汤咏竤在推动本地小学篮运方面贡献良多。
他指出，当年也因为小学的篮球基础开始建立起来，也间接地刺激了整体篮运的发展，直今已不再为球员来源不足而操心。
同时，他形容，由于他曾是两个不同球会的领导人，所以他了解到球会只要各自专心推动本身县区的篮运发展，减少磨擦及互 相合作，就能够让整体的篮运有良好的发展前途。
拿督也强调说，搞篮运就必须先要有球员注册，＂若果一个篮总本身就没有制度的话，又怎样执行其职责呢？＂
＂制度就是球会与球会之间的责任，而且也是球员对球会的责任，同时也是裁判与技术人员对球会的责任，若果不实行的话， 本州篮运是不到那里去。。。。＂
他苦口婆心说，篮总花在球员纠纷上的时间实在太多了，甚至引起了球会之间的不愉快，若果有良好的注册制度的话，就可以 一劳永逸解决问题。
＂当然，在这个制度下，是不能让篮总掌握极权，而要公平对待球员，总算有惩罚（禁赛）亦有宽赦的规定及期限。＂他以沙 巴足球职业队为例，就是有各项转会及注册等条例下不会引起争执。
他认为，注册及惩处球员的权力应赋予沙巴篮总，以便这个母会真正掌权，与此同时，球员也要了解归属那个球会的重要性， 勿论是球员或家长都要知道这是他们的责任。
拿督继指出，领导亚庇篮总期间，最值得骄傲的是，从来没有去拉拢或收买球员，以便壮大亚庇队的实力。
他形容，球会之间的争执都是因球员背弃所引起的，所以必须先有明文规定的注册及抱着减少磨擦的心态。
他说，栽培本身球员是要透过长期举行选拔赛来进行遴选，＂不然的话，只要用钱去收买球员不就更容易吗？＂
最后，他形容，亚庇各县区在近年来的篮运都有勃兴发展起来。
在拿督吴添泉担任篮总主席期间，曾赢得一次沙巴杯男组冠军，一次全州十八岁以下男组冠军，三次全州十六岁以下男组冠军 ，一次婆罗洲杯男公开组冠军，两次全州十八岁以下女组冠军及一次全州十四岁以下男组冠军。
@Basketball Development Requires a Proper Registration System
Looking back at the Kota Kinabalu Basketball Association’s achievements over more than fifty years since its establishment, there is no denying that its most glorious era began in the early years of the 21st century. At that time, the association was led by prominent local businessman Datuk Seri Dr. Goh Tian Chuan, who introduced new ideas and leadership approaches that ushered KKBA into a new era.
In conjunction with the association’s 52nd Anniversary celebration, he graciously took time out of his busy schedule for an exclusive interview, sharing memories of the past and his thoughts on the future direction of the association with KKBA committee members.
He said that during his earlier years in the police force, he had once represented teams as a player. However, his involvement in basketball administration only began later through the efforts of Chan Chun Kit. At that time, Chan arranged for the Legend team to participate in competitions organized by the Penampang Basketball Association. Coincidentally, the association was facing a leadership vacuum, and after persuasion from Lee Leong Tin, he unexpectedly ended up serving two terms as Chairman of the Penampang Basketball Association. Once the association was back on track, he handed leadership back to the local committee members.
He further explained that similarly, when he took over as President of KKBA in 2003, it was also through the Legend team. Chan Chun Kit was his partner while Wong Fei Hu served as coach. He joked that this was how he became inseparably connected with basketball circles.
Having led KKBA for four years, he openly acknowledged that the association had a dedicated group of passionate committee members. Although financial resources were often limited, everyone was willing to contribute and support the association. More importantly, they worked together harmoniously without being overly calculative.
He emphasized that KKBA had to handle an overwhelming number of competitions. Besides district-level selection tournaments, the association also needed to compete in state championships and occasionally represent Sabah at national tournaments. As a result, competitions had to be organized throughout the entire year, making the workload far beyond what ordinary people could handle. Therefore, every committee member contributed in one way or another, while the leadership had to bear tremendous pressure.
Because of this, he said that during his first two years as president, he was still able to manage the heavy responsibilities of the association. However, during his second term, after taking over a new company, he worried that he would no longer be able to devote enough attention to basketball affairs and eventually passed the responsibility to others.
“Still, the most memorable part of my four years with KKBA was the sheer number of championships we won! The very first state tournament we participated in after taking over the association—the Under-18 Championship—already brought us a title!”
He explained that KKBA was able to usher in a new era partly because the association made conscious efforts to reduce disputes by adopting a policy of “encouraging people to play basketball instead of creating conflicts.” They were less concerned about issues of players leaving teams.
“In reality, everyone wanted to represent Kota Kinabalu because it was a major association. But for players, conflicts between clubs or coaches could easily create emotional tensions.”
Because of this more inclusive and positive environment, the number of students taking an interest in basketball gradually increased. It was no longer limited to only two or three schools having teams—many other schools also began forming basketball teams. Therefore, he believed the association must continue encouraging the development of school basketball programs. He also praised Secretary Tong Wing Hong for his significant contributions toward promoting primary school basketball locally.
He pointed out that the establishment of a stronger basketball foundation at the primary school level indirectly stimulated the overall development of basketball in the region. Today, there is no longer concern over a shortage of players.
At the same time, he noted that having led two different basketball associations allowed him to understand that as long as each association focused on developing basketball within its own district, minimized conflicts, and cooperated with one another, the overall future of basketball development would be very promising.
Datuk stressed that proper basketball development must begin with a player registration system.
“If a basketball association itself has no proper system, then how can it carry out its responsibilities effectively?”
“A proper system defines the responsibilities between associations, the responsibilities of players toward their associations, and the responsibilities of referees and technical officials toward the associations. Without implementing such a system, basketball development in Sabah will not progress very far…”
He spoke earnestly about how too much time had been wasted dealing with player disputes, which even created unhappiness between associations. With a proper registration system in place, these issues could be resolved once and for all.
“Of course, under such a system, associations must not be allowed to hold absolute power. Players must be treated fairly. Even when punishments such as suspensions are imposed, there should also be clear provisions and timeframes for forgiveness and reinstatement.”
He cited the Sabah professional football team system as an example, where transfer and registration regulations help avoid unnecessary disputes.
He believed that the authority to register and discipline players should be entrusted to the Sabah Basketball Association so that the parent body could truly exercise proper governance. At the same time, players and parents must understand the importance of club affiliation and recognize it as part of their responsibility.
Datuk further stated that one of the things he was most proud of during his tenure as KKBA President was that the association never attempted to lure or buy players in order to strengthen the Kota Kinabalu team.
He described how disputes between associations were often caused by players switching allegiances, which was why there needed to be clear registration regulations accompanied by a mindset focused on reducing conflicts.
He said that developing local players should rely on long-term selection tournaments and systematic development.
“Otherwise, wouldn’t it be much easier to simply use money to buy players?”
Finally, he remarked that basketball development across various districts in Kota Kinabalu had flourished significantly in recent years.
During Datuk Seri Dr. Goh Tian Chuan’s tenure as KKBA President, the association won:
- One Sabah Cup Men’s Championship
- One State Under-18 Boys’ Championship
- Three State Under-16 Boys’ Championships
- One Borneo Cup Men’s Open Championship
- Two State Under-18 Girls’ Championships
- One State Under-14 Boys’ Championship