KUALA LUMPUR: Intan Sarah Anisah Zulgafli is setting a new milestone for Malaysian women's football, having signed for New York Dutch Lions FC.
The 24-year-old, who competed in the recent Phnom Penh Sea Games, is set to be the first Malaysian to playl in the Women's Premier Soccer League.
Intan's move to New York was hailed by many Malaysians, including the US-based singer-songwriter Yuna, actor Aedy Ashraf, singer Alif Satar and former national netballers Fariha Razak and Steffi Sarge Kaur.
New York Dutch Lions said in a social media post: "Welcome to New York and we are excited to have you Intan!
"The forward was a bit delayed because of the visa that she needed from the embassy but now that it is all sorted out, she is able to start her journey with us!"
Intan, who also plays for the national futsal team, thanked national women's team coach Soleen Al-Zoubi for her making it to New York.
Soleen, who is also FAM women's football technical director, said: "I'm proud of this (Intan joining Dutch Lions). Our main focus is to professionalise the game by promoting our players to play abroad.
" It's a great opportunity to gain international experience within a high-performance environment. I expect another few players to have the same opportunity soon.
"I'm happy for Intan, she deserves it. We have talked about it and she's ready. I wish her all the best of luck. It's just the start and the best is yet to come."