(Centre row, from third left) Syed Kebir, Ni, Praba and Kwan with junior players and coaches from SRAFTKL after the signing ceremony between Touch ‘n Go Group and SRAFTKL. — Courtesy photo
THE Squash Racquets Association of Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur (SRAFTKL) received a boost from Touch ‘n Go Group, thanks to a multi-year corporate partnership.
Under the agreement, the group – comprising Touch ‘n Go Sdn Bhd and TNG Digital Sdn Bhd – will support the SRAFTKL Junior Squash Championships for a three-year term.
This includes the inaugural Touch ‘n Go Group SRAFTKL Junior Open Squash Championship, which brought together over 580 participants from 14 countries in a week-long showcase of regional talent.
Held at the National Sports Council’s Squash Courts in Jalan Duta, Kuala Lumpur, and the Astaka Sports Complex in Petaling Jaya, the tournament featured six age categories for boys and girls: Under-9, Under-11, Under-13, Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19.
The competition also marked its debut on the Asian Junior Squash Circuit calendar.
“As a homegrown brand, our company is committed to building stronger communities, and sports is a powerful tool to shape future generations,” said Touch ‘n Go Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Praba Sangarajoo.
“Through this partnership, we hope to instil values such as discipline, resilience and excellence among young athletes, towards helping them grow into well-rounded individuals and future champions who can represent Malaysia on the world stage.”
Beyond competitive tournaments, the partnership will also support coaching programmes and greater access to squash workshops for youths nationwide.
This provides avenues for junior players to connect with mentors and sporting legends to inspire their journey.
TNG Digital Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Alan Ni said the initiative went beyond just athletics.
“Sports is a gateway to broader opportunities. By supporting young squash talent, we’re helping to build their confidence and connecting them with the benefits of digital and financial access,” said Ni.
SRAFTKL president Steven Kwan welcomed the partnership as a vital boost for squash development in the country.
“With Touch ‘n Go Group’s support, we can provide better resources and structured programmes for both players and coaches, thus strengthening our long-standing junior development system,” said Kwan.
Organising chairman Syed Kebir said the new tournament and long-term collaboration marked a new chapter for the sport.
“This partnership is a game-changer for junior squash in Kuala Lumpur and beyond.
“The championship sets a high benchmark for competitiveness and talent development, and we’re excited to watch the next generation emerge,” he said.
SRAFTKL’s junior development programme, now in its 26th year, currently trains over 130 players across various age groups under the guidance of experienced certified coaches.
