KUALA LUMPUR — The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) denied that there are payment discrepancies between players selected for the national team, stressing that there are no variations in compensation.
Speaking to Scoop, FAM secretary-general Noor Azman Rahman refuted the reports, affirming that all players, irrespective of their backgrounds—whether local, naturalised, or heritage players—receive equal allowances for their services.
He was responding to a report by Scoop published last week that quoted a trusted source within the football fraternity regarding the alleged wage disparities within the Harimau Malaya squad.
“All members of the national team receive equal allowances for their contributions,” said Azman.
“For instance, travel expenses for naturalised players are covered separately through our official airline partner, Malaysia Airlines. However, these costs are not bundled into their general allowances.
“Conversely, local players are responsible for covering their travel expenses when called up.
“We cover travel costs for naturalised players based abroad, such as Dion Cools, when they are summoned for national duty. But it’s essential to emphasise that this coverage does not entail additional cash rewards for their services.”
Addressing allegations of changes in player allowances over time, Azman firmly denied any revisions.
“There have been no changes to the allowances for our players, and we have consistently provided the same allowances to all players throughout the years.
“As the secretary-general overseeing these payments, I completely refute the claim that we have revised the player allowances.
“I respectfully request those who are spreading these claims to refrain from doing so, as these false rumours can impact our players’ morale, especially with our upcoming participation in the AFC Asian Cup next year,” he added.
Malaysia will kick off their AFC Asian Cup campaign against Jordan on January 15, 2024.
Malaysia is placed in Group E for the 18th edition of the tournament, alongside South Korea, Jordan, and Bahrain. — November 1, 2023