SINGAPORE, 2018, MARCH 21: The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) today unveiled the Singapore Premier League, an innovative move to rebrand and improve Singapore’s professional football league. FAS President, Mr Lim Kia Tong, and Vice President, Mr Edwin Tong, unveiled the league’s new logo, along with a host of new initiatives.
The revamp encompasses a new vision and attitude towards local football, which is geared towards improving the vibrancy of football in Singapore. Grounded by four pillars – premium platform, professionalism, sustainability and vibrant football culture – the improvements to the league will make the national sport more entertaining and fast-moving to attract wider audiences
FAS President, Mr Lim Kia Tong said: “Our new vision and attitude will improve the vibrancy of football in Singapore. The Council and I knew that a revitalisation of our domestic league was necessary for Singapore football to move forward. When we sought to be elected into the Council, we already knew that the onus would be on us to make changes to revitalise the league. We were given the mandate by the affiliates and we wanted to create a positive change for the betterment of Singapore football.
“We are deeply appreciative of the support we have received from Asian Football Confederation (AFC), along with involvement from FIFA, the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, Sport Singapore and of course the Singapore Premier League clubs. The future of Singapore football and the success of the Singapore Premier League will also depend on the continued support and collaboration from our partners and stakeholders.”
The Singapore Premier League brand brings the local context to the forefront, emphasising that the league is for Singaporeans, by Singaporeans. As the only professional sports league in Singapore, the Singapore Premier League bears the responsibility to set the standard and to be a product that acknowledges the stature of its position in Singapore – a premier competition.
FAS Vice President, Mr Edwin Tong added: “More than just a rebrand of the logo and a change of name, the Singapore Premier League is a transformation of a product. And with any transformation, the initiatives that we have undertaken will take time to bear fruit.
“The objectives of the Singapore Premier League are to grow our playing base, to have good governance, to create a vibrant fan experience and ultimately to ensure a steady pipeline of players for the National Team. Our four pillars, which support these objectives, are the basis of all the changes and developments we have initiated.”
Sport Singapore Chief Executive Officer Mr Lim Teck Yin said: “It is necessary to transform the league to improve the standard of local football. We therefore support the focus on youth development and all efforts to raise the professionalism of the clubs. We wish the FAS and the clubs of the new Singapore Premier League all the best. It is now important that all stakeholders get behind them. It will take time, but if we are committed to staying the course, I believe Singapore football will do us proud. Let’s cheer them on and support them as they rise to the challenge.”
Geylang International FC chairman Mr Ben Teng said: “The revamp of Singapore’s professional league is a move that all the clubs, including Geylang International FC, support as we believe that this will inject a new and refreshed image into Singapore football. The FAS has been actively engaging with us on the various initiatives, which have a greater focus on professionalism and youth, and I believe they will not only help us as clubs but also Singapore football to develop holistically. I ask for all our local football fans and stakeholders to continue supporting the Singapore Premier League as we all work towards our common vision for Singapore football.”
Hougang United FC midfielder Justin Hui, 20, said: “I am excited to be part of this revamped league as it will provide a platform for young players like myself to prove our worth. I believe there are many talented players around who will now have more opportunities to show what they can do and we are all looking forward to performing at the highest level of professional football in Singapore.”
Photo and source: Football Association of Singapore
