Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has initiated an investigation into the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the Malaysian Football League (MFL). This was confirmed by AFC Secretary General, Datuk Seri Windsor John, in an interview with Astro Arena reporter, Fina Nasrom.
If a violation of club licensing conditions is found, FAM and MFL risk having their league license revoked by the AFC, which would prevent Malaysian clubs from participating in Asian competitions.
The AFC and its Club Licensing Department have taken note of salary issues in the Malaysian League, prompting this drastic investigation to reassess the licensing process for clubs that may not meet the necessary requirements but have still been granted licenses. A similar situation occurred two years ago with the Iranian Football Association, resulting in a suspension that barred Iranian clubs from Asian competitions.
Confusion arose when Kuala Lumpur City received a club license for the 2024-25 season despite reports of EPF payment arrears since February 2023.
“The investigation file has already been opened, and the next step is to contact the MFL and FAM to start discussions with the Club Licensing Department, who will monitor and review the licensing process,” said Windsor
“After gathering the information, we will make a decision through our committee.”
Windsor added that the most serious consequence would be the withdrawal of licensing authority from FAM and MFL, leading to no Malaysian representatives in Asian competitions.
“If there is a violation, we will impose penalties according to our rules. This applies universally; no country will be exempt from punishment if found guilty.”
In response, FAM Deputy President Datuk Yusoff Mahadi expressed willingness to fully cooperate with the AFC’s investigation.
“I welcome any action by the AFC as it ensures our league runs properly. We are open to this investigation as it can help identify and improve any defects or weaknesses in our league,”
Credit Photo : AFC
