The District Training Centre (DTC) Kids strengthening program is an outstanding initiative to promote youth sports development. The Johor State Football Association organizes it in collaboration with the Sports Innovation and Technology Centre (SITC) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). The program gathers enthusiastic participants from all over Johor, promoting inclusivity and community engagement.Although the program focuses on football, it offers various sports development activities to improve the young participants’ physical fitness, technical skills, and overall well-being. The Johor State Football Association and the SITC, which are driving forces behind this initiative, are dedicated to providing a platform that fosters athletic talents and instils teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship values.
The program has a wide-ranging impact on Johor state football referees. It emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and development for all key stakeholders in the local football ecosystem. Referees are provided with specialized workshops, mentorship programs, and collaborative sessions to enhance their officiating skills, stay up-to-date with the latest rule changes, and deepen their understanding of the game. This concerted effort not only improves the proficiency of referees but also contributes to the overall quality and fairness of football matches across Johor. SITC was honoured to participate in this event and share its expertise and experience. The program impacted the participants’ lives and laid the foundation for a healthy and active lifestyle. It also contributed to the broader landscape of youth sports development in Johor.