Kim Swee to part ways with Sabah FC after contract ends

KOTA KINABALU (Nov 21): Datuk Ong Kim Swee will part ways with Sabah FC when his contract expires at the end of November.

The Rhinos head coach confirmed his departure in a statement today, ending a three-year association with the state senior football squad.

“It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I announce my decision to take a different path and not continue as the head coach of Sabah FC after my contract ends on November 2024.

“My final match will be against PT Athletic (in Cheras) on Nov 23, 2024,” he said.

For the record, Kim Swee was offered a contract extension early this month that would have seen him guide the Rhinos until the end of the current season on April 30 next year.

However, it will not be the case anymore as he bids his farewell.

“My 36 months with Sabah FC have been truly remarkable and not a short journey by any means.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this amazing football club and to be part of its history.

“I would like to sincerely thank the Chief Minister of Sabah Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, the President of the Sabah Football Association (Safa) Datuk Ir Shahelmey Yahya and the top management of Sabah FC for their trust and support during my time here,” he added.

Since signing for Sabah FC in September 2021, Kim Swee has turned the Rhinos into one of the genuine contenders in the domestic football scene.

With his good track record, particularly with the national team, the Malacca-born coach has been able to sign former and current national players as well as recruiting quality foreign imports.

This led to the revival of Sabah football as the state senior squad impressed by claiming consecutive third-place finishes in the Super League while also guiding the team to the Asean Zone semifinals of the AFC campaign.

In the on-going league campaign, Sabah is third on 26 points, behind undefeated leaders Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) with 40 points and second placed Selangor FC with 29 points.

“To the players, I am incredibly proud of all our efforts and achievements as a team. Your commitment and professionalism, both on and off the field, have been outstanding. It has been a great honour to work alongside you.

“To the support staff, I extend my deepest appreciation for your tireless efforts and dedication behind the scenes. Your expertise and spirit have been the backbone of our accomplishments.

“Lastly, to the fans, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude. You are the heartbeat of this club.

“Whether in the stadium or cheering from afar, your support has always meant the world to me and the team. I will always remember your cheers and encouragement,” said Kim Swee.

Towards this end, Kim Swee said he would remain a loyal supporter to the team that he also played for in the mid-90s.

“I look forward to seeing this club continue to grow and succeed in the future,” he concluded.