Melvin Tan prefers to keep a low profile, but he has been quietly developing future football stars in Melaka.
He represented the state in the Razak Cup and the Malaysian Chinese Football Association Cup (MCFA) in the 1980s and 1990s, before moving into administrative roles with MCFA and Melaka FA.
However, his real passion has always been unearthing new talent. That hard work has paid off, with CIMB sponsoring his programme, alongside government funding for another initiative called ‘Madani Kids’. Together, the sponsorships mean the youngsters in his programmes don’t have to pay a sen for training.
“Whatever money I get, I use to pay for the facilities and my coaches,” said Tan.
“The grant also covers the costs of the tournaments we join. I’m happy to say I run a multiracial programme with players from all major race groups. It’s a true reflection of Malaysia’s unity.”
Tan’s dedication has now been rewarded with an offer from Croatian club Nogometni klub Osijek to attend a ‘Football Education Programme’ from May 22 to June 1, 2026.
Founded in 1947 in Slavonia, Osijek played in the Yugoslav First League until Croatia’s independence in 1992. It is one of four clubs never to have been relegated from the Croatian First League, alongside Dinamo Zagreb, Hajduk Split and Rijeka.
The offer letter arrived last month, much to Tan’s surprise.
“The offer came out of the blue. It would be great for us to represent Malaysia in Croatia, and it gives the players something to look forward to next year,” said Tan.
“My coach, Ibrahim Mohamed, has good contacts in Croatia. I believe some of them may have seen the work we are doing. It’s a good opportunity for the club and the players. We are now trying to source funds for the trip.”
Two of his boys – brothers Jeremy Chua Jingbin and Derrick Chua Jingye – are already pursuing studies in the United States on football scholarships, while several others have joined clubs in other states.
“Although some players move on, I see it as a success when they progress to bigger teams and academies,” said Tan.
“What I do is not for personal glory. I want to expose children to football and the possibilities it offers them. We give them skills that will help if they want a sports career.”
The CIMB Melaka Juniors Football Development Programme held a camp in June, with a second scheduled for Dec 13 and 14. The club has also competed in several seven-a-side tournaments around Malaysia.
Tan remains steadfast in his commitment to nurturing the next generation of football stars, believing the skills and experiences gained through his programme will open doors for his players to pursue football careers.