Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – In a groundbreaking move to nurture the next generation of football stars, MILO® and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) hosted the MILO® x FAM Ultimate Experience 2025, a two-day intensive training programme for 167 young footballers aged 6 to 16. These talented players emerged victorious from the MILO® Junior Champions League 2024, a nationwide tournament that saw over 9,000 aspiring players compete. For the first time, young female footballers were included in the programme, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in Malaysian football.
A Historic Milestone for Female Footballers
The inclusion of female players in the MILO® Junior Champions League and the Ultimate Experience reflects MILO®’s commitment to breaking barriers in sports. Soleen Al-Zou’bi, National Women’s Football Coach of FAM, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “MILO®’s partnership with FAM expands football opportunities nationwide, empowering girls to play while elevating both players and coaches. This programme fosters a competitive spirit, preparing them for future challenges.”
Masterclasses and Professional Mentorship
The young athletes had the unique opportunity to learn from some of Malaysia’s top football coaches, including Cameron Ng (Head of Grassroots and Head Coach of the Women’s U20 Team), Daphney Teoh (Grassroots Coach Educator), and Zaidi Zainol (Goalkeeper Coach of the U20/U17 Women’s National Team). They also received guidance from national football stars like Norshahrul Idlan (Mat Yo), Nur Ainsyah, and Farahiyah Ridzuan.
Participants attended football masterclasses, sports injury talks, and training sessions focused on advanced techniques and strategies. They also explored the state-of-the-art facilities at the FAM headquarters, gaining a first-hand look at the life of professional footballers.
Celebrating 75 Years of Empowering Champions
As MILO® celebrates 75 years of legacy in Malaysia, the brand continues to champion the transformative power of sports. Lim Kerwin, Head of Sports Marketing at MILO®, Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad, emphasized the programme’s impact: “Football teaches discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Through MILO®’s partnership with FAM, we not only provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills but also lay the foundation for their personal growth.”
Gratitude from Participants and Parents
The programme received overwhelming praise from participants and their families. Muhammad Zulfazli bin Zulkeply, a parent, shared, “As a parent, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity given to my children to join this event, which has truly inspired them to continue playing football with passion.” Qaseh Damia Irdina binti Mohd Fauzi, a 14-year-old participant from SMK Ayer Keroh, Melaka, added, “Thank you, MILO®, for giving us the opportunity to be part of this incredible journey, allowing us to emerge as champions and proudly represent Melaka on this stage.”
Building a Grassroots Football Ecosystem
The MILO® x FAM Ultimate Experience is part of a broader ecosystem of grassroots football initiatives, including the MILO® Hidup Bola futsal carnival, which attracts over 12,000 young players annually. These programmes have produced exceptional talents like Nik Akif Syahiran Nik Mat (National Under-22 Squad) and Arif Aiman Hanapi (National Football Award 2021 Most Valuable Player). Additionally, the MILO® Champions Clinic introduces children to over 18 sports through certified coaches.
Also Read: MILO® Malaysia Breakfast Day 2025: 75 Years of Nutritious Goodness
Looking Ahead
Since 2021, MILO® and FAM have worked together to build a dynamic grassroots football development ecosystem. This partnership revitalizes a long-standing relationship dating back to the late 1980s and 1990s, which paved the way for renowned players like Azri Ghani and Shivan Pillay. As they celebrate the successes of 2024, MILO® and FAM are poised to introduce new initiatives for 2025 and beyond, furthering their commitment to developing Malaysia into a hub for world-class football talent.
For more information on MILO® sporting programmes, visit MILO® Sports | Moments That Make A Champion | MILO® Malaysia.
