Malaysian Football League (MFL) sees the governing body as needing at least seven units for Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to ensure the system can operate more smoothly.
Now, MFL has 4 VAR units for use in Liga Super Malaysia season 2024/25.
The Chief Executive Officer of the MFL, Datuk Stuart Ramalingam explained that the addition of the unit will make it easier for the governing body to manage the logistics and movement of the VAR, as well as ensuring that a unit can be permanently deployed to handle matches in Sabah and Sarawak.
“Currently we have four units but they are not enough. These four units are according to our ability because with VAR not only involves operations but also maintenance.” Stuart said.
“I think we need at least seven sets because we want to reduce the risk involving the aviation aspect when the unit will be sent for matches in Sabah and Sarawak.”
“That’s why we think it is necessary to have a permanent unit there because sensitive and heavy equipment like this, there is definitely a risk of damage if it is always flown.
“But we are lucky because there is a similar system used in Likas and we are getting approval to use that system in the Malaysian League. So we will have five VAR units after this,”
At the same time, Stuart also hoped that the supporters could give time, especially regarding the operation of VAR, since the system was only used for the first time in the Malaysian League (M League).
“I don’t blame the high expectations of the fans because they have seen VAR at the highest level like in the world’s leading league. But we have to understand that VAR has only just been implemented in this country.
“Although there are some problems that arise along the way we use VAR, we will try our best to find the best solution.
“We intend to implement VAR in every M League match,”
Credit Photo : Jayden Seah/SNE-Photo
