Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, July 10, 2025: The Olympic Council of Malaysia reports that basketball pioneer Tan See Wah passed away on Tuesday, July 8. He was 85.
A star player during the 1960s, “Ah Sir” competed in the prestigious Agong Cup national basketball championships from 1961 to 1970. His exceptional performances earned him selection to the national team, representing Malaysia at the Asian Basketball Championships in 1965 and 1969.
He also played for Malaysia in the 5th Asian Games at Bangkok in 1966 and won silver medals at the 4th and 5th South East Asian Peninsula (SEAP) Games at Bangkok in 1967 and Yangon in 1969.
“Ah Sir” led the development of basketball during his teaching career, at school and state levels, and coached the national women’s team for 36 years.
His most remarkable legacy was leading the national women’s team to 13 SEA Games medals - 9 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze – and he also became a leader in administration with the Malaysia Basketball Association.
“We recall the close working relationship we enjoyed with ‘Ah Sir’ during his tenure as Secretary General of MABA,” said Mr. Fong Wan Hor, General Manager of the OCM.
“He was deeply passionate about basketball coaching and the OCM was proud to support MABA.”
Datuk Mohd Nasir Ali, Secretary General of the OCM, added: “On behalf of the OCM, we deeply mourn the passing of Mr. Tan See Wah, a remarkable individual who made invaluable contributions to the growth of basketball in Malaysia.
“We firmly believe that the legacy of Mr. Tan See Wah will continue to inspire the basketball community in Malaysia for generations to come, thanks to his selfless service and unwavering dedication, from the grassroots level to the national stage.”