PETALING JAYA: A random haircut turned into a fresh chapter of entrepreneurship for footballer Sunil Chandran looking to take control of his future, both on and off the pitch.
In a sport where contracts can be uncertain and salaries inconsistent, the 25-year-old Sunil, who played for Super League sides like Perak, Petaling Jaya City and PKNS has taken matters into his own hands by co-founding a barbershop in Jaya One, Petaling Jaya, alongside his long-time friend, Sachin Samuel, also a footballer, who played for PKNS and Kuala Lumpur in the past.
The name of the shop is Balrcutz.
The idea? It sparked unexpectedly during a routine grooming session.
“To be honest, the barbershop was very random,” said Sunil with a chuckle.
Brave venture: Sunil Chandran (right) and Sachien Samuel posing for a photograph at their barbershop Balrcutz.
“Sachin and I often bounce business ideas off each other. One day, while getting a haircut, he texted me asking if I’d be keen on opening a shop. I brushed it off at first.
“But a few months later, I came across a spot for rent at Jaya One and just knew, it was perfect.”
With that call to Sachin, the duo got to work. What started as a casual thought quickly transformed into a full-fledged business venture.
Running a business wasn’t entirely foreign to the footballer, whose passion for entrepreneurship runs deep.
“I’ve always liked the idea of solving problems creatively. Watching my friends build ventures inspired me too. My parents always reminded me that a football career can end any time, and to always have a back-up plan,” said Sunil.
“I never enjoyed studying, but I’ve always loved building something from the ground up.”
His motivation is grounded in reality, football’s instability, especially in Malaysia, where late or unpaid salaries are becoming more frequent.
“Salary issues are getting worse. As I get older, the pressure to secure a stable income grows heavier. I just want to enjoy football without worrying about my finances.
“That’s why I made it a mission to generate enough income outside the sport. Whatever I earn from football now is just a bonus.”
For fellow players, his advice is straightforward: start now.
“Try finding alternative income streams. There are so many hours in a day and countless ways to make money. Whether it’s business, trading, or a side hustle - do something that brings both income and happiness. Especially with how uncertain the football scene is, you need that safety net.”
As for his own football future, it remains uncertain as he last featured for A1 Semi-Pro League club Bunga Raya Damansara.
“Most teams haven’t started preparing for the next season, so I’m not sure what the plan is,” he said.
“Right now, I’m focusing on my businesses. But if I can still play, I will. Despite all the injuries and setbacks, football is still a strong passion of mine.”
