KUALA LUMPUR — Allan Lee did so much for the sport of bowling across Malaysia, but his heart held a special spot for Sabah. And those who knew him best would tell you why — he loved fishing.
A national bowling treasure and an icon of the game, Allan passed away yesterday at home at the age of 83.
As a decorated national bowler, Allan brought immense pride to Malaysia through his remarkable achievements.
These included a trios bronze medal at the 10th Asian Games in Korea and numerous SEA Games medals.
But his legacy extends far beyond his accolades, rooted in his unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent and building the sport at the grassroots level.
Allan’s work as part of the MTBC National Development Programme left an indelible mark on Malaysian bowling. His efforts impacted countless athletes across the country, with a special focus on Sabah.
Steven Foo, manager of the National Press Club Malaysia, a founding member of the Sabah Tenpin Bowling Association (SATBA), and former manager of Merdeka Bowl, the only bowling alley in Kota Kinabalu at the time, paid tribute to his long-time friend and collaborator.
“Allan contributed a lot to bowling, particularly in Sabah, when he was part of the MTBC National Development Programme in the 90s. He was engaged by the National Sports Council (NSC).
“Back then, I was managing Merdeka Bowl, the sole bowling alley in Kota Kinabalu. The development programme in Sabah produced many state bowlers. Among them is Gerald Samuel, who went on to become a national bowler and is now part of the national coaching setup.
“Allan was a very nice, humble, and helpful person. He was always ready to share his coaching experience with the state coaches,” said Steven, who also wore many hats within SATBA.
Maradona Chok, the Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) secretary-general, also spoke of Allan’s immense contribution.
“I knew Allan when I started bowling during the 90s and he was one of my coaches during my youth training programme. But it was just three months before I went overseas to study.
“Then in 2005, I joined Sabah Bowling and Allan was the development manager for bowling. I worked closely with him on developing Sabah bowling and the youth programs. There we became close friends, and he taught me a lot about bowling, program management, and coaching.
“Allan was always cheerful and willing to guide us young ones. I will always remember him for his towering figure but sweet character.”
Maradona also highlighted Allan’s passion for the sport and the people he worked with.
“Allan was in charge of the MTBC National Development Programme. Anyone involved in coaching will know him. He did a lot for many states, but he loved Sabah because he loved fishing.”
His impact as a mentor cannot be overstated. Through his work, he inspired countless young bowlers, empowering them to chase their dreams while imparting the discipline and love for the sport that defined his own career.
Allan’s contributions to Malaysian bowling will never be forgotten. He was not just a decorated athlete but also a coach, mentor, and friend to many.
His legacy as a “fisher of men” who believed in the potential of every athlete he met will continue to inspire future generations.
Allan leaves behind a wife, Jessie, son Marcus, and daughter Wendy.
The wake and funeral service will take place today and tomorrow at the Petaling Jaya Gui Yuan Funeral Parlour (Room 7).
His achievements:
1975 – 8th SEAP Games, Bangkok – Team Bronze
1983 – 12th SEA Games, Singapore – Team Bronze
1985 – 13th SEA Games, Bangkok – Team Silver
1986 – 10th Asian Games, Korea – Trios Bronze
1989 – 15th SEA Games, Malaysia – Doubles Bronze
1993 – 17th SEA Games, Singapore – Team Silver
— December 20, 2024