Sabah FC’s CEO now biggest shareholder of the club

KOTA KINABALU – Chief Executive Officer of Sabah Football Club (Sabah FC), Datuk Verdon Bahanda, is now the biggest shareholder of Sabah Football Club Sdn Bhd with 70% share. 

The decision was made unanimously by the Supreme Council Members of Sabah Football Association (SAFA) recently. Before this, the biggest individual shareholder of the club could own only 30%.  

Verdon said that all necessary documents have been signed yesterday to confirm his share in Sabah FC to fit the rules and regulations of privatising the team. The documents must be submitted to the Football Association of Malaysia by December 18.  

Verdon who is a businessman and activist for native rights in Sabah was appointed as Director and CEO of Sabah FC on November 12.  

He assured Sabah FC players that he became the largest shareholder in the club not just for fun, but for the development of Sabah’s football arena.  

“My presence in the team is not to make things difficult, but to make things easier for the players, coaches, and management team. If I am doing this for self-interest, then I would not have spent millions of Ringgits of my own money.  

“What is important is strong collaboration among the players, coaches and the management team,” he told Sabah FC players in Likas Stadium here, today.  

Verdon also gave his words that the team will not be involved in politics, and anyone who brings political agenda to the club will be eliminated.  

He also said he wants the coaches to now create a unique rhythm and identity for Sabah FC.  

“Sabah FC should have its own “DNA”; this is the way we play. After that, I want the coaches to initiate long-term programmes that would involve not only the existing players, but also from the grassroots; as now this is under the jurisdiction of Sabah FC,” he said.  

Verdon said he is open for criticism and discussions regarding the players, coaches, or the management team of the club.  

“As long as one is tied with the contract, all parties should respect the contract by not taking “inside” issues to the knowledge of “outsiders”, especially through social media. 

“Now, it is important for the team to have good performance and results in each Malaysia Super League match in the next season, to answer to all sorts of criticisms and scorns, especially from the supporters,” he said. –The Vibes, December 11, 2020.