One Step At A Time : Bola Sepak Wanita

Credit: The Football Association of Malaysia

It was Another Selasa League by Super Bobai Cup at New Camp, Bandar Utama and The Ryders Women's League at NPNG; Damansara Damai were my first experiences watching Women's Football. Those were on a social front. Then saw our Malaysian futsal contingent in the 2017 South East Asian Games (SEA) at Panasonic Sports Complex, where we hosted. Unfortunately, I couldn't see the football event due to time constraints and a lack of advertisements.

Since 2017/2018— I have made friends across the women's football sphere along with having good conversations with them. There's a lot of hope among them that want women's football to succeed just as the men's game in Malaysia and across South East Asia. Be that as it may, there's still a long way to go. Just as in the men's game, there's a lot of problem-pointing and a lack of solution suggestions, as usual. Alongside acknowledgement of why it is important to support the women's game. There is a superb write-up by the British Council about the importance of women's football. Read further via this link.

Despite a 3-0 loss in their opening 2023 SEA Game match against Vietnam. The Malaysian women's national football team has taken several significant steps forward in their journey to success on and off the field. Progress for the women's game has been stagnant for a long time. However, the momentum for women's football has been growing, especially from the grassroots. Therefore, it's an opportunity to showcase to the public that something is happening. In that, getting a steady viewership or, from a marketing standpoint, interest investment to add to the game.

It is also worth noting that the women's national football team faces unique challenges and obstacles, including limited resources and insufficient domestic national competitions. This is where state associations must make efforts with the plans of the national football association, progressive states, and driven people from the community to work together to develop the game further.

Yet, despite these challenges, the group is striving towards excellence and proudly represents their country both on and off the pitch.

Furthermore, it is essential to remember that success in sports is only sometimes measured by the scoreline. The women's national football team has shown bravery and resilience by overcoming tough opponents and testing their fortitude. While the 3-0 loss may be disappointing, it is an essential first step for the women's national football team or any team that wants to create an everlasting legacy. With continued hard work and dedication, this team, on and off the pitch, has the potential to achieve great success and positively impact the world of football.

While the result may be disappointing, it is important to acknowledge the effort and dedication of the team. From the players to the backroom staff, management, and more behind the scenes pushing to reach heights. They have been working hard to improve the ecosystem so that it will inspire more and more to be involved in the beautiful game.

Before ending— why is it significant to support women's football? I remember when I was in New York City last year. I asked the question to several soccer-goers about it. And I feel the same. As this unreleased paragraphs from drafted chapter of my book notes, (I’ll be sure to have more when I return back and experience more and hope to pass on more knowledge)

"After speaking with my new friends as well as learning on ground knowledge and experience from them. I acknowledge that supporting women's football is crucial for promoting gender equality in sports, empowering girls and women, and creating a more inclusive and diverse society. By providing equal opportunities and resources for female athletes, we can help to break down gender stereotypes and promote a culture of respect and greater inclusion. Supporting women's football can also positively impact mental and physical health, contribute to the sport's growth, and create economic opportunities for female athletes. Ultimately, by embracing and supporting women's football, we can create a more vibrant and dynamic football culture that benefits everyone."

It is important to remember that progress in women's football will take time. It requires a sustained effort and commitment from everyone to creating a more equal playing field for female athletes. Therefore, we must take things one step at a time and work towards achievable goals, such as providing access to resources and funding for women's football programs, increasing the sport's visibility, and supporting female athletes at all levels. By taking a gradual and realistic approach, we can build a strong foundation, espcially starting from the grassroots, for the growth of women's football and ensure that it continues to flourish in the years to come.

For Malaysia to reach heights, we must remember to take things one step at a time. And to the current generation of Malaysian Women Footballers, Coaches, and More wanting to create a progressive legacy— padangbolasepak.com are with you!

Written by Khalilul, founder of padangbolasepak.com and Sec-Gen of REKREASI. More about Khalilul via his socials, Twitter and Instagram, @Brotherkhal and personal website, Khalilul.com