KUALA LUMPUR – “Don’t resent KLFA.”
That was the message from veteran sports analyst Datuk Pekan Ramli, who defended Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s RM1 million contribution to the Kuala Lumpur Football Association (KLFA) and urged other clubs to be more proactive.
“If you want similar recognition, organise your own programmes, invite the prime minister, and make your case. Who knows—you might receive even more,” he said.
“To me, it was entirely within his prerogative. It wasn’t unusual, given the occasion,” Pekan added, referring to the KLFA’s recent 50th anniversary celebration, where Anwar was the guest of honour.
“In sport, you need to be strategic. Don’t just wait around. Take initiative and build connections.”
Pekan also pushed back against public speculation over the source of the RM1 million, urging critics not to jump to conclusions.
“No one knows the exact source. It could have been from the prime minister’s personal funds. RM1 million isn’t an implausible private donation,” he said. “Let’s not stir controversy without facts. Assume good faith unless proven otherwise.”
However, sports governance expert Sadek Mustaffa said the episode raised bigger questions about how football funding is distributed—and the importance of transparency.
“While it’s commendable that KLFA received this support, the government must ensure similar opportunities are extended to other associations and clubs—especially those with a solid grassroots track record,” he told Scoop.
He warned that politically driven allocations risk damaging public trust and undermining competitive fairness.
“The danger is when political affiliations determine funding. That undermines the integrity of the sport and sidelines other deserving teams.”
Sadek also cited financially vulnerable government-linked clubs like Immigration FC and PDRM FC, stressing that even state-backed teams face steep operational costs.
“If the government is serious about strengthening local football, these teams must also be supported,” he said. “Without sufficient funding, they risk financial distress, which could destabilise the league.”
He called for tighter financial controls, including separate accounts for public allocations and clear guidelines to ensure the money is used solely for football-related development.
“Every sen must be traceable,” Sadek said. “Without oversight, audits could uncover misappropriations that would harm not only club reputations but also the government’s.”
He added that KLFA must treat the RM1 million not as a gift, but as an investment, and prove that it can rebuild trust and lead by example. — July 16, 2025