BREAKING: Darimosuvito Tokijan, Singapore football icon, dies at 62
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Singapore’s football community is mourning the loss of Darimosuvito Tokijan, a celebrated left winger whose skill on the pitch matched his warmth off it. Tokijan passed away on December 23, 2025, after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a lasting legacy in singapore’s football story.
Tokijan represented the national team from 1983 to 1992, earning 23 appearances and scoring 11 goals. He brought his talents to the 1984 Asian Cup hosted by Singapore, helping to raise the profile of the Lions on home soil.
Described by teammates as a tireless runner with sharp intelligence on the flank, Tokijan routinely troubled defenses and contributed crucial goals throughout his international career.
Former Singapore FA teammate Abbas Saad recalled tokijan as a smiley, down-to-earth presence who did whatever was asked of him, a teammate everyone could rely on in battle on the field.
Malek Awab, another former national player, said he was grateful for the chance to visit Tokijan in hospital recently and praised his hard work, fitness, and disciplined character, noting that he never caused trouble and remained a positive force in the dressing room.
In a statement, the Football Association of Singapore offered heartfelt condolences to Tokijan’s family and friends, reflecting the impact of his passing on the country’s football fraternity.
Tokijan was a standout in Singapore’s 1985 Malaysian League title-winning campaign, finishing as the team’s top scorer with 13 league goals.He also played a role in singapore’s run to the 1990 Malaysia Cup final, a testament to his influence during a formative era for the Lions.
Among his memorable moments was a 25-meter left-footed strike in a 7-0 victory over Kelantan in the 1991 Malaysian Semi-Pro Division 1 League, a goal that remains a highlight of his club career.
Beyond his playing days, Tokijan remained a fixture in Singapore football as a coach and mentor. He led youth and reserve squads for clubs including Geylang International, Tanjong Pagar United, and Balestier Khalsa, and later collaborated with ActiveSG to promote inclusive sports and active living.
During his time as Balestier’s assistant coach,he helped the Tigers secure the 2014 Singapore Cup,beating Home United 3-1 in the final. Teammates and club officials alike described him as dedicated,patient,and generous with his time,frequently enough working with younger players after training to sharpen essential skills.
Balestier’s head coach at the time, marko Kraljevic, spoke of Tokijan’s commitment to helping players improve and his calm, principled approach-traits that left a lasting imprint on the club and its young athletes.
Key facts at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | Darimosuvito Tokijan |
| Age at death | 62 |
| Nationality | Singaporean |
| National team years | 1983-1992 |
| International caps/goals | 23 caps, 11 goals |
| Notable tournaments | 1984 Asian Cup (host nation) |
| Malaysia League title | 1985 (top scorer with 13 goals) |
| Malaysia Cup final | 1990 finalist with Singapore |
| Memorable club goal | 25m left-footed strike vs Kelantan (1991) |
| Clubs | SAFSA, Geylang International, Jurong Town, Balestier Central |
| Coaching roles | Geylang, Tanjong Pagar United, BalestierKhalsa; Balestier assistant coach |
| Singapore Cup | 2014 winner as Balestier’s assistant coach |
| Later work | ActiveSG (promoting inclusive sports) |
| Death | December 23, 2025; illness noted as cancer |
Legacy: evergreen takeaways
Tokijan’s journey underscores how a footballer can be more than a scorer: a leader who elevates teammates and nurtures the next generation. His career bridged local leagues and international competition at a pivotal time for Singaporean football, cementing a legacy that blends competitive excellence with mentorship and community service. His story also highlights how former players can transition into influential coaching and advancement roles, shaping future generations long after their playing days end.
As singapore continues to invest in youth pathways and national-team development, Tokijan’s example offers a blueprint: combine athletic prowess with patience, generosity, and a commitment to helping others grow. The sport’s family remembers him as a reliable teammate, a diligent coach, and a gentleman who faced adversity with resilience.
Have yoru say
What memories do you hold of Tokijan’s style or his contributions to Singapore football? In what ways should the football community honor his legacy?
How has Tokijan’s example influenced your view of player development and mentorship in sports?
Fans and followers are invited to share remembrances and reflections in the comments to keep alive Tokijan’s enduring impact on the game he loved.
Share this breaking tribute to celebrate a player who left an indelible mark on Singapore football and its next generation.
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