Liew Kit Kong, born on January 6, 1979, in the Malaysian state of Perak, is a name synonymous with determination, excellence, and inspiration in Malaysian football. Of mixed Chinese and Indian heritage, his unique background shaped a resilient spirit that propelled him to great heights in the world of sports. Liew’s career as a striker not only earned him accolades but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of football fans across the nation.
Early Life of Liew Kit Kong: The Foundation of a Dream
Growing up in Perak, Liew Kit Kong developed an early passion for football. His mixed heritage gave him a rich cultural perspective, which he carried onto the football field. From playing street football with friends to dreaming of wearing the national jersey, young Liew nurtured a passion that eventually became his life’s purpose.
A Stellar Career Takes Flight
Liew Kit Kong’s professional journey began with dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite competing in the Malaysia Premier League, the second division of Malaysian football, he earned the Best Striker Award at the 2007-08 FAM Football Awards. Beating nominees like Mohd Safee Mohd Sali and Mohd Zaquan Adha Abdul Radzak, Liew proved that talent and hard work could outshine any limitations.
That season, Liew emerged as the top local goal scorer with 16 goals, cementing his place as a force to be reckoned with.
Representing Malaysia: A National Pride
Liew’s career reached new heights in 2002 when he received his first call-up to the Malaysian national team. In a monumental international friendly against Brazil, Liew was part of the starting eleven, sharing the field with football legends like Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. For a young man from Perak, this was not just a match but a dream realized.
His international career also saw him contributing to Malaysia’s third-place finish in the 2004 AFF Championship and participating in the 2005 Islamic Solidarity Games, where the team reached the quarter-finals. These moments etched Liew Kit Kong’s name into the annals of Malaysian football history.
A Triumphant Return to Malaysian Football
After a stint in Japan where he coached junior teams and gained valuable experience, Liew returned to Malaysia in 2015, joining PKNS FC in the Malaysia Premier League. Despite being 36 years old, his passion for the game remained unshaken.
“Returning to Malaysian football feels like coming home,” Liew said. His experience in Japan shaped his understanding of the game, and he brought this wisdom to PKNS, aiming to guide the team to success.
Leadership and Legacy
Liew Kit Kong’s leadership extended beyond the field. Known for his humility and sportsmanship, he became a role model for younger players. His commitment to fitness, strategic gameplay, and teamwork were testaments to his belief that football was not just about talent but also discipline and character.
Honours and Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Liew Kit Kong accumulated numerous accolades:
- Perak: Malaysia Cup (2000), Malaysia FA Cup (2004)
- Kedah: Liga Perdana 2 (2002)
- Kuala Muda Naza FC: Malaysia Premier League (2007/08)
- Selangor: Malaysia Super League (2010), Malaysia Charity Shield (2010)
- Malaysia National Team: AFF Championship (2004 Third Place)
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