Former Sabah, Sarawak footballer Bobby Chua dies, aged 55

He had been suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a rare neurological disease that gradually paralyses muscles in the body.

PETALING JAYA: Former Sabah and Sarawak footballer Bobby Chua Abdullah died this afternoon at his home.

He was 55 years old, Bernama reported.

Bobby was a household name among football fans in East Malaysia during the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000.

His wife Zafidah Yaakub said the former midfielder from Inanam, Sabah, died at 2.25pm today.

“God willing, his remains will be buried at the Waqaf Kampung Kota Muslim Cemetery located in front of Masjid Kota Tuaran,” said Zafidah in a statement on her Facebook.

Bobby had been suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a rare neurological disease that gradually paralyses muscles in the body, in the last two years.

Starting his football career in 1994, Bobby played for Sabah until 1998 before migrating to Sarawak. He played for his new team for six years.

Bobby made history when he was released by Sabah for a record low transfer fee of RM9.95.

He also played in the squad that won the FA Cup title in 1995 and the Premier League title in 1996.

He hung up his boots in 2004 after a 15-year career as a professional footballer.