JOHOR BAHRU – Johor announced December 17 as an occasional public holiday to celebrate Johor Darul Ta’zim FC’s decade-long dominance of Malaysian football.
Johor state secretary Tan Sri Azmi Rohani, in a statement, said that the Southern Tigers made history by winning the Super League for the 10th consecutive time, marking a decade of JDT’s dominance in national football.
He stated that on December 16, at 8.30pm, a grand celebration will be held at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri, following the team’s match against Penang FC.
Azmi said that, in accordance with the decree of Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, the state government decided to declare the following Sunday, December 17, as an occasional public holiday for all Johor residents.
“The granting of this occasional public holiday aims not only to celebrate JDT’s glorious success but also serves as the state government’s appreciation to those involved and the people of Johor who unwaveringly supported the JDT team.
“This holiday is also being celebrated after JDT made their own history in the national football arena and to celebrate JDT’s success in lifting the Malaysia Cup trophy last night,” he said.
Azmi clarified that the declaration of the holiday is in line with the powers granted under Section 9(1) of the Holidays Act 1951.
Meanwhile, Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, in a Facebook post, congratulated JDT for winning the Malaysia Cup to complete a second consecutive quadruple. The menteri besar was including the team’s Sumbangsih Cup success as part of a four-trophy haul.
He expressed gratitude to Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, who never knew the meaning of giving up and consistently strives to improve the quality of JDT’s football, not only at the domestic league level but also at the Asian level.
“The 3-1 victory against Terengganu FC (last night) confirms their fourth Malaysia Cup title, following their victories in 2017, 2019, and 2022, adding to JDT’s trophy collection, now totalling 26.
“Thanks to all JDT supporters who have consistently provided full support in every match this year,” said Onn Hafiz. – December 9, 2023