We lost a gem, says Mirnawan of Sarjit
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Mirnawan Nawawi had shared the pitch with Sarjit Singh in some of the most hostile and electric hockey arenas across the globe.
Datuk Mirnawan Nawawi, a former Malaysian hockey player, has mourned the loss of his mentor and teammate, Sarjit Singh. The pair shared three decades together, celebrating Olympic triumphs and battling under Sarjit's demanding leadership. Their final meeting occurred at Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz Hospital three weeks ago, where Mirnawan was denied access to Sarjit's bedside due to infection protocols.
Mirnawan recalled, "I still remember just opening the door and standing outside while he was on the bed." Despite the restrictions, Mirnawan expressed his gratitude for witnessing Sarjit one last time, emphasizing the irreplaceable nature of their bond. The duo's achievements include winning bronze at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games, competing in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and leading Malaysia to victory in the Malaysian Hockey League in 1991-1992.
Mirnawan acknowledged that Sarjit's influence extended beyond their playing days, noting that he remains a role model for leadership and hockey intelligence. Sarjit's passing signifies the end of a unique chapter in Malaysian sports history, leaving a void that cannot be filled.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
