E-COMMERCE platform Shopee signed a memorandum of understanding with Malaysia Football League (MFL) to become the title sponsor of Piala FA Malaysia 2018.
Through the partnership, MFL also gains access to market and sell Piala FA and unifi Liga Super Malaysia tickets to Shopee’s 10 million users in Malaysia.
Designed to boost the revenues of local football teams by allowing fans to purchase tickets online, the partnership has since sold 20,423 e-tickets, an emphatic 306.5% more than the initial target of 5,000.
In fact, e-ticket sales stormed past 5,000 within two months of the partnership, proving the popularity of the programme in this football-loving country.
More importantly, as Shopee does not charge sellers registration or annual fees, nor impose a commission, every ringgit raised from tickets sales on the e-commerce platform is channelled towards the teams.
“Aside from the strong growth trajectory, Shopee continues our brand promise to empower local businesses and communities,” said Shopee regional managing director Ian Ho.
“On top of the sponsorship, we assisted MFL and local teams to chalk up an extra RM1.5mil from ticket sales and activities held together with MFL and local players.
“On our own, we launched many initiatives such as the Demam Bola campaign, mini stadium, trivias and games to get Malaysians to support and promote the local football teams and scene.
“To do this, Shopee funded gifts and prizes worth more than RM500,000.
From the increased convenience to the enhanced presence of the sport, we believe that the socio-economic impact of this partnership will certainly go a long way,” he added.
Meanwhile, MFL chief executive officer Kevin Ramalingam added, “The rapid growth in Internet penetration and smartphone use in Malaysia was evidence for us to tap into e-commerce.
“But more than selling tickets, our goal was to communicate with our fans, give them a smooth purchasing experience, and make it easier for them to support their beloved local teams.
“With Shopee, achieving these goals has allowed us to make strides towards transforming the local league and Malaysian football in general.
“We have been very happy with the progress of this partnership and look forward to working more closely with Shopee,” he said.
With Pahang lifting the Shopee Piala FA Malaysia 2018 last Saturday, there is still so much to look forward to for fans of local football.
To benefit ardent football fans clamouring for all things related to local football, Shopee and MFL have also partnered to launch the official MFL merchandise store featuring Malaysian football teams’ original kits, apparel, bags and accessories.
Launched at the beginning of this month, the store is already stocked with Felda United and UKM FC merchandise.
It is expected to introduce more products by all Malaysian teams in the near future.
In line with MFL’s vision to promote the love for football among Malaysian youth and drive engagement between players and fans, Shopee is organising football clinics for top local football stars and coaches to impart professional tips and advice for passionate youths. For updates on the football clinics, stay tuned to Shopee’s Facebook page.
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