A new goal for Malaysia’s future footballers
PETALING JAYA – CelcomDigi is taking community football to the next level. Through its Arena CelcomDigi platform, the brand has kicked off the CelcomDigi Kids Football Clinic Malaysia, a fun, inclusive initiative built to inspire children aged 12 and below to stay active, make friends, and learn teamwork through Malaysia’s favourite sport.
The launch, officiated by YB Hannah Yeoh, Minister of Youth and Sports, brought together leaders from CelcomDigi, DBKL, and YFA Red Star Academy at Taman Rimba Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. The event reflects CelcomDigi’s ongoing commitment to making sports more accessible to every child, no trials, no fees, just passion and play.
“This initiative shows how public-private partnerships can make a real difference,” said YB Hannah. “Malaysia doesn’t lack talent — we just need more platforms like this to discover and nurture it early.”
More than football, it’s a community movement
The CelcomDigi Kids Football Clinic isn’t your typical weekend kickabout. It’s part of Arena CelcomDigi’s bigger mission to build a sustainable sporting ecosystem for Malaysians from grassroots football to digital esports.
Every Saturday, up to 70 children gather at Taman Rimba Kiara, guided by six licensed coaches who focus on more than just technique. The sessions teach teamwork, discipline, and confidence, all while keeping the fun alive.
“It’s not just a football programme,” said Datuk Kamal Khalid, CelcomDigi’s Chief Transformation Officer. “It’s a movement to bring football closer to the community and strengthen family bonds through sports.”
The pilot programme’s success is already setting the stage for expansion across Klang Valley and other Malaysian cities, thanks to strong support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and DBKL.
Why it matters: nurturing the next generation
Malaysia has always had football fever from mamak screens showing EPL matches to kids kicking cans in the alley. But structured, safe, and inclusive training for young kids? That’s what makes this initiative special.
Arena CelcomDigi is about creating equal access for all, regardless of background or ability. It’s also part of CelcomDigi’s broader effort to promote active lifestyles and digital connectivity, bringing together both traditional and esports under one roof.
Among the sports under Arena CelcomDigi’s umbrella include:
- Football ⚽
- Esports 🎮
- Pickleball 🏓
- Sepak takraw 🪶
- Lawn bowls 🥏
Together, they reflect CelcomDigi’s vision of helping Malaysians move, play, and connect in every way possible.
What’s next for Arena CelcomDigi
With the success of its pilot at Taman Rimba Kiara, CelcomDigi plans to bring the Kids Football Clinic to more public parks and communities across Malaysia. The goal: to empower more children to discover their passion, stay active, and grow into confident young Malaysians, both on and off the field.
So if you’re around Kuala Lumpur on a Saturday, drop by Taman Rimba Kiara. You’ll probably hear the laughter, the whistle blows, and the echo of small footsteps chasing big dreams.