PETALING JAYA: The nation’s sports scene lost another precious gem with the passing of hockey legend C. Paramalingam on Friday (Dec 12).
Paramalingam passed away at the age of 91 in Klang, Selangor, as confirmed by former national player I. Vikneswaran, one of the first to learn of his passing.
"It is very sad because of all his contributions to Malaysian hockey. He started his career as a player at a young age, became one of the great forwards, and later helped Malaysia as a coach," Vikneswaran said when contacted.
During his tenure with the national team from 1956 to 1970, the late Paramalingam forged his own legacy on the field, most memorably as one of the top scorers for the national squad at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, netting two goals.
The late Paramalingam also served as a coach, guiding the national team to qualify for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
He was further recognised with the Best National Coach award in 1999.
News of Paramalingam’s passing has saddened the Malaysian hockey community, who continue to cherish his many contributions to the sport.
"Good man, good coach, highly respected by those he coached at different levels. As a cadet reporter starting out, he was patient in explaining things and situations.
"Not just me, but other reporters covering hockey benefitted from his wisdom. Met up with him in Klang last year. Glad I did. RIP coach," said A. Subramaniam, a former Sportswriter with The Star.
