GEORGE TOWN: Penang lost a football great when legendary former coach Moey Yoke Ham died at the Penang Hospital here today.
The 76-year-old died about noon after suffering from a brain haemorrhage.
Moey is best remembered for guiding Penang to the Premier 1 league title back in 1998. At that time, Penang was regarded as a no-hopers team.
According to family members, Moey was admitted to the hospital yesterday after he had a fall at home, where he sustained head injuries.
His daughter, Moey Mi Lin, said her father continued to follow the football scene closely, although he had retired from coaching.
"It (football) is his life and (the field) is his first home actually. Until today, he went and watched football matches at the stadium here. After the matches, he would hang out with his friends.
"I have been getting many messages from his fans, extending their condolences. Even at the hospital just now, many have come up to me to say that they were his fans.
"I thanked them for remembering him and they told me that will never forget him," she said.
Moey's remains were taken to the crematorium in Batu Gantung about 3pm and would be placed there for five days for the public to pay their last respects.
He leaves behind his wife, two children and a grandchild.
Moey became Penang head coach in 1996 until 2000 where he transformed the state team into a respectable force in the local football scene which took many by surprise.
The Football Association of Penang also extended their heartfelt condolences to Moey's family over his death.
Meanwhile, netizens have taken to the social media to express their gratitude and say their goodbye to Moey, whom they referred to as a legend and a father figure.
"Thank you Uncle Moey, as you were fondly known by many of us. Your legacy will forever be remembered. Goodbye legend", said Penang Panthers Central on its Facebook page.
According to Penang Panthers Central, Moey had gone to coach Home United in the Singapore League before retiring.