Najeeb ends Malaysia's 19-year absence from ABF board

 

Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) president Datuk Najeeb Abdullah was elected to the Asian Bowling Federation (ABF) executive board in Doha, Qatar on Nov 12, 2026. -- NSTP/Filepic

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia have regained a place on the Asian Bowling Federation (ABF) executive board after 19 years following the election of Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) president Datuk Najeeb Abdullah.

Najeeb was elected for a four-year term from 2026 to 2030 at the ABF General Assembly in Doha, Qatar, on Thursday.

He becomes the first Malaysian to serve on the continental governing body's executive board since the late Sidney Tung, who was ABF vice-president from 1991 to 2007.

Najeeb, however, was quick to share the recognition with the Malaysian bowling fraternity.

"It's our MTBC team effort actually, consistently striving to make Malaysia always on the top map of international bowling fraternity," he said.

"That includes the athletes, coaches, exco members and general council members."

Najeeb also expressed hope that the collaboration would continue to strengthen as Malaysia seek to establish themselves as a powerhouse in world bowling.

MTBC welcomed his election, describing it as recognition of his leadership and contributions to the sport's development.

Najeeb was among three newcomers elected alongside Macau's John Ng and Saudi Arabia's Talal Al-Towereb.

Kuwait's Sheikh Talal Mohammad Al-Sabah was re-elected unopposed as ABF president for another four-year term. - NST