James Kon
During the World Cup and other football events, Japanese football fans cleaned the stadium where they sat, got rid of rubbish while the football team also left their dressing room spotless, said Football Association of Brunei Darussalam’s (FABD) President Pengiran Haji Matusin bin Pengiran Haji Matasan.
“This kind of commitment on and off the field is something that we should learn and inspire ourselves,” he said during the donations ceremony from Japan to FABD at the association building yesterday.
“We are inspired by Japan for what they have achieved. We have learnt their commitment to bringing success to football development and we should emulate how the Japanese football team conduct themselves on and off the field,” the FABD President said, commending Japan’s success hosting the World Cup in 2002.
He also mentioned that FABD and Japan Football Association (JFA) signed a memorandum of understanding in 2015 and have received assistance from JFA through merchandise, equipment and manpower.
Japanese coach Hanita Atsushi has been with FABD for several years and has contributed to football development in the country.
Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam Maeda Toru handed over the donation of 48 footballs, 21 futsal balls, training wear and sports footwear.
“The donation is on behalf of the government and people of Japan to FABD and in a collaboration with the JFA,” he said. “I expect that more cooperation opportunities lie ahead between our people. I hope to see the football scene strengthen further in Brunei.”
