Malaysian Football Hits Commercial Limbo As It Breaks Ties With Telekom Malaysia

Last January, Telekom Malaysia signed a massive US$123.5m that should have lasted for eight years with the MFL. It was then deemed as a boost to local football development and uplifting the standards of the beautiful game in the country. Unfortunately, the TM has reportedly failed to oblige and have even chosen not to respond to MFL notices.

According to MFL chief DYAM chairman Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, CEO Kevin Ramalingam is holding official talks with interested parties on becoming a new sponsor immediately. Tunku Ismail said he is “disappointed” with its main sponsor actions and that it has “always been a good partner” to Telekom Malaysia (TM), adding that MFL had given the latter time to solve the issues it is experiencing.

“In addition, MFL has made many attempts to hold talks with TM but the move has come to a dead end,” he said. As such, MFL is unable to wait any longer as it has the responsibility to manage the league.

“Honestly, I’m disappointed with TM and didn’t expect this from them. We are aware that TM and the government may have problems but they should not let the nation’s No.1 sport, which unites the country suffer. This is the end result when sports are politicised.”

Tunku Ismail then spoke to try and calm fears over a cancellation.

“MFL have always striven to safeguard the M-League teams and looked for ways to strengthen the team’s financial positions. Football should not just (be) seen on its commercial values but also as a medium of unity in our multi-racial country and everyone has a role to play in the development of our football.”