KUCHING: The RM30,000 fine imposed on Kuching City FC over a squad list error underscores deeper procedural and officiating weaknesses rather than club misconduct, according to sports analyst, Datuk Pekan Ramli.
The Malaysian Football League (MFL) confirmed that the sanction was issued following a technical breach during Kuching City’s Super League match against Penang FC at Stadium Bandaraya on March 15, where an error was detected in the official team list submission.
According to the investigation, defender Scott Galang Woods was not listed in the official squad document despite being registered as a substitute.
The league also found that the club failed to thoroughly verify the match-day documentation before final confirmation.
However, the inquiry also uncovered broader procedural lapses involving match officials.
The Match Commissioner (MC), Game Coordinator (GC) and Fourth Official (P4) were found to have failed to adhere to standard operating procedures (SOP) during player eligibility checks, while a stoppage-time substitution was approved without proper verification, resulting in an unlisted player being allowed to take the field.
Despite the breach, the MFL ruled that the match result would stand, with Kuching City FC maintaining their 1-0 victory over Penang FC.
In terms of disciplinary action, the Match Commissioner has been suspended for 12 months, with the final six months under a rehabilitation phase.
The Game Coordinator has received a six-month suspension, while further action involving the Fourth Official will be determined by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM).
Pekan, when asked about the sanction, said the punishment on Kuching City FC should be viewed within the context of procedural weaknesses rather than intentional wrongdoing.
“I see the RM30,000 fine as something that highlights weaknesses in standard operating procedures. It appears to balance the fact that this was an administrative error, not negligence or deliberate action by the club,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted recently.
He added that the incident reflects a broader need for tighter matchday protocols and improved verification processes among officials.
“We can see that several match officials failed to carry out their duties according to established procedures. At this point, there is no issue of system updates, but rather human error,” he said.
However, Pekan noted that Kuching City FC may consider themselves fortunate that the match result was not overturned.
“The club is still lucky that their 1-0 win over Penang FC was maintained despite the irregularity,” he added.
MFL has since reiterated that all clubs and officials share responsibility in ensuring the accuracy of official match documentation, stressing that negligence affecting competition integrity will not be tolerated in future.
