Hockey master Poonen (seated) with representatives of Malacca High School's hockey team in 1962 (Koh is on the right; Yang is second from right). Photo: M. Selvanathan
P. Poonendarajah, affectionately known as Master Poonen, passed away on Aug 21, 2024, at the age of 87. His legacy lives on in the countless students he developed, groomed, and nurtured into exceptional hockey players, many of whom went on to represent Malaysia on the Olympic stage.
During the 1960s and 70s, Master Poonen became a revered figure at Malacca High School (MHS, today known as SMK Tinggi Melaka), where his coaching not only led the school to numerous victories but also shaped the character and discipline of his students. He meticulously maintained a compilation of MHS hockey endeavours, cataloging competition results at both domestic and national levels, and created a detailed record of the players who went on to represent Malaysia at the senior and junior levels.
Under his guidance, MHS produced no fewer than 40 national hockey players, some of whom graced the world’s biggest sporting events. Notable Olympians include double Olympians Koh Hock Seng (Tokyo 1964, Mexico City 1968) and Yang Siow Ming (Mexico City 1968, Munich 1972).
Master Poonen was especially proud of MHS's stunning 30-1 victory over Henry Gurney School, a school record that still stands. Another remarkable achievement under his leadership was in 1963 when MHS won every major hockey title available: the local schools league, the state senior and junior leagues, the knockout tournament, and the open "sixes" competition.
In his own words, "At that time, I was proud to be the school's coach and hockey master, and now, the game's statistician and a keeper of relevant information of a kind." Indeed, Master Poonen’s contribution to Malaysian hockey was unparalleled.
I first encountered Master Poonen in 1977 when I joined MHS. His vast knowledge and the moral values he instilled in us remain unforgettable. He often reminded us, "Hockey is a gentleman's game. You must not only play like a gentleman but also dress, talk, and behave like one. Your hair must be combed neatly, your shirt tucked in, socks rolled up, and even after tackling the ball, your shirt must remain tucked, and your hair in place. You must always look smart, like a true gentleman."
His unwavering commitment still amazes me to this day. In 1978, just weeks before my MCE (now SPM) exams, I was selected for the first Junior World Cup hockey training squad and a European tour. Torn between pursuing my academic goals and seizing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, I sought his advice. Master Poonen encouraged me to go, and when I missed my English oral exam while on tour, he arranged a special sitting for me with the state education department. This level of dedication was beyond what most would offer, and I will always be grateful for it.
Poonen (left) and three others with their awards in 2015, given by the Malacca Hockey Circle, a group made up of ex hockey administrators who helmed the Malacca Hockey Association, Malacca state hockey coaches, and ex Malacca-born national players.
In 2015, in recognition of all his contributions, we organised the first Malacca hockey reunion dinner at the Malacca Club, where we honoured Master Poonen for his selfless service. We hope that sports federations and state or federal governments will also acknowledge the immense contribution of legends like him, not only for their role in developing the game but also for shaping the character and minds of their students.
Farewell, Master Poonen – gentleman, teacher, coach, guide, and mentor. You will always be remembered for your selfless service and love of hockey. May you rest in peace.
