PETALING JAYA: Several Malaysian League clubs are ready to join forces with Selangor to look into long-term reforms.
Selangor chief executive officer Dr Johan Kamal Hamidon has taken the initiative to call for clubs to come together to address the various issues in the league, including the financial challenges.
Johan acknowledged that solutions to the league’s recurring financial issues would not be simple, stressing that meaningful change would require commitment from all stakeholders.
“We are open, but the answers are not easy. Solving financial issues that grow every year requires major changes – not only from Selangor, but from all teams,” said Johan.
“Everyone must commit and be willing to make sacrifices. We need to sit down and discuss.
“There are solutions, but all stakeholders must ask themselves whether they are in football for the long or short term.”
Penang said they welcomed the call and believed the time had come for clubs to “sit at the same table” for open and honest discussions on the league’s current state.
“We are ready to contribute ideas and play our part, including making difficult decisions if necessary, for the greater good,” said general manager Jeffrey Chew Gim Eam.
Gim Eam added that priority must be given to building a more stable, competitive and commercially viable league.
Negri Sembilan chief executive officer Faliq Firdaus echoed similar sentiments.
“Financial sustainability, governance and commercial models must be addressed, alongside external pressures.”
He added that discussions should involve not only clubs and the league, but also all stakeholders, including the Football Association of Malaysia.
Terengganu also backed the move, with chief operating officer Mohd Syahrizan Mohd Zain stressing the need for open and constructive dialogue.
Meanwhile, Johor Darul Ta’zim’s chief executive officer Luis Garcia expressed keen interest in Johan’s proposals but there seemed somewhat to be a tinge of sarcasm from the Spaniard.
“I’m intrigued with the recent statement that he has solutions for the financial problems in the Malaysian League. I believe we must have this round table discussion with all the teams because we need to know what his idea of a solution is.
“I’m honoured to have played at the highest level in addition to working with world-class organisations, and I am really eager to find out what solutions Dr. Johan has considering his vast experience and knowledge in Malaysian and international football.
“I hope these discussions with all teams take place in the near future.”
With multiple stakeholders now signalling willingness to engage, attention turns to whether a formal platform for dialogue can be established to chart a sustainable future for Malaysian football.
