KUALA LUMPUR – The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) are in talks about the national team possibly participating in the 2025 Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) Nations Cup.
Speaking to Scoop, FAM secretary-general Datuk Noor Azman Rahman said that while preparations are being made, the ultimate decision rests with national head coach Peter Cklamovski.
“From a football standpoint, the tournament would certainly be advantageous for the national team, as it would allow them to compete against strong opponents.
“However, for now, our discussions are still preliminary, and no confirmation of participation has been made.
“A final decision will depend on whether Cklamovski agrees to the proposal and shows interest in participating,” Azman explained.
He said that further details cannot be shared at this time, as Cklamovski is expected to make a statement soon regarding the teams or friendly matches he is considering.
There was a recent social media post claiming that Malaysia would take part in the 2025 CAFA Nations Cup, which is anticipated to include teams like Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Iran.
It’s worth mentioning that Uzbekistan and Iran have already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The CAFA Nations Cup was first launched in 2023 as a biennial international men’s football tournament organised by the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA).
The inaugural event was co-hosted by Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan from June 10 to 20, 2023, with Iran winning the championship. Oman was the only non-CAFA nation invited to participate in that edition.
Additionally, Azman said that FAM has not yet made a decision regarding hosting the 2025 Pestabola Merdeka, citing a busy tournament schedule for both the national team and Malaysia League clubs.
“No decision has been made yet, but the competition committee will thoroughly assess all aspects before we move forward with organising it,” he said.
For context, the Pestabola Merdeka was established in 1957 and was once referred to as the “Grand Old Lady of Asia” for its success in attracting notable international teams during its peak.
Malaysia is the defending champion, having won the 43rd edition last year by defeating Lebanon under the leadership of former head coach Pau Marti Vincente. – June 20, 2025