Kuala lumpur: Malaysia’s largest grassroots futsal programme, MILO® Hidup Bola, marked its 20th anniversary this year by reinforcing its role as a launchpad for future football talents, with Johor and Sabah crowned champions in their respective categories.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johor’s Stylo Mylo Orange clinched the under-12 (U12) title, while Seven E FC from Tawau, Sabah, made history as the first Sabahan team to reach and win the under-16 (U16) championship. Both teams emerged victorious after high-intensity matches, sharing the top share of the RM94,000 prize pool.

The Best Player awards went to Muhammad Adith Iqram Fardhli Hamzie (U12) and Muhammad Adil Qayyum Jamaluddin (U16), while Best Goalkeeper honours were claimed by Mohammad Aniq Zahfran Junaidi (U12) and Muhamad Arifin Abdul Rahman (U16). This year’s tournament drew over 8,000 players nationwide, with 948 teams competing, 408 in the U12 category and 540 in the U16.

Only 32 teams advanced to the Grand Finals at Futsalhub, Ampang, Selangor, on Aug 9, where the top teams from each state battled for national titles and prizes. Nestl© Malaysia’s Head of Sports Marketing, Kerwin Lim, said the tournament demonstrates MILO®’s commitment to developing young talent and shaping future leaders through sport. ‘We believe every child deserves the chance to dream. By providing quality coaching, healthy competition and character-building experiences, MILO® Hidup Bola invests in both the nation’s sporting future and its future leaders. MILO® remains committed to fuelling the nation’s energy and ambitions through sport,’ he said.

Since its launch in 2006, MILO® Hidup Bola has championed the development of futsal among Malaysian youth, fostering sportsmanship while encouraging an active, healthy lifestyle.