KUALA LUMPUR – The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has defended the RM44.29 ticket price for the upcoming third-round 2027 Asian Cup Qualifier against Nepal at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium (SSI) in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, following backlash from Harimau Malaya supporters.
Fans have taken to social media to voice their frustration over the higher-than-usual ticket prices, particularly in comparison to matches held at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium (SNBJ), where the national team typically plays.
Tickets for normal seats at SNBJ generally range from RM25 to RM35, while grandstand seats are priced around RM40.
FAM’s newly elected president Datuk Joehari Mohd Ayob acknowledged the dissatisfaction but maintained that the decision was made in collaboration with the governing body’s ticket and stadium committee, taking into account various logistical factors.
“We have to play the match at SSI because some upgrading work is being carried out on the pitch at SNBJ. Yes, we are aware of the price difference for the tickets.
“But the decision was made together with all the relevant parties, including our own ticket and stadium committee, and this is the best solution we could come to.
“On top of that, the match experience at SSI will be unique, and we guarantee it will be top-notch for the fans. We are confident it will be worth their money.
“At the same time, I don’t think the price of RM44.29 is too expensive, and from our side, we feel it remains within a price range that fans can afford.
“Despite the backlash, I am confident that the fans will still flock to SSI and give their full support to Harimau Malaya, as they always do. I am sure the turnout will be just as great as it usually is at SNBJ,” Joehari said during a press conference last night.
In March 2023, Malaysia played a friendly match against Turkmenistan at SSI.
Under the guidance of former head coach Kim Pan-gon, Harimau Malaya won the match 1-0, with winger Akhyar Rashid scoring the only goal of the game. – March 21, 2025