KUALA LUMPUR: Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has called for a sweeping reform of the country’s football ecosystem, with a strong focus on resolving the issue of unpaid player salaries.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Hannah stressed the need for a long-term, structural solution to the challenges plaguing Malaysian football, rather than temporary fixes.
“The issues in our football scene require more than just reactive measures. It’s time we look at the bigger picture and work together to rebuild a healthier and more sustainable football environment,” said the sports minister.
Hannah revealed that she had engaged the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to conduct an assessment of the situation. The resulting report will be reviewed and discussed with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) in an upcoming meeting.
“I’ve asked AFC (Asian Football Confederation) to do an assessment. They have given me a report and we will discuss it with FAM. We can’t look at one case only,” she said.
“We have to see it holistically. In our future meeting, we will discuss with FAM on how to improve the current ecosystem. Not just at the national level but we want to see improvements in these clubs.”
Hannah’s remarks follow growing frustration among players and coaches over unpaid wages.
It was also revealed that Kelantan United interim coach Rezal Zambery Yahya has publicly urged the club to resolve salary arrears that have gone unpaid for up to six months.
“We never brought shame to the team despite the off-field struggles, and we remained committed and professional,” Rezal said.
“Now it’s time for the management to be more transparent and serious about fixing the issues.”
Kelantan United finished at the bottom of the Super League, placing 13th with only seven points.
The salary crisis has also impacted foreign talent. Serbian striker Milos Gordic of Kedah told the media he is returning home after nine months without pay.
“I feel like crying. I want to rest my head and be with my family in Serbia,”
“I have sacrificed a lot, I am fighting for my baby, for my family. But I am going home without any money,” he said.
