22-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Perak, Kedah thrown A1 League lifeline after Super League exit
KUALA LUMPUR: The Amateur Football League (AFL) A1 League could offer Perak and Kedah Darul Aman a lifeline to remain in Malaysian football.
Their time in the top-flight Super League has come to an end after they failed to obtain a national licence for the 2025–2026 season, due to financial difficulties.
AFL chairman Datuk Yusoff Mahadi said they are "open" to welcoming the two teams, adding that the A1 League can provide a crucial opportunity for revival and redemption.
"We don't want teams to just vanish when they fall. The A1 League is a platform for Kedah and Perak to survive and keep fighting," said Yusoff, who is also the FAM deputy president.
Malaysian football was recently rocked by the downfall of former champions Kedah and Perak, who are grappling with financial woes and unpaid wages.
Yusoff said the AFL is willing to extend the A1 League registration deadline to accommodate the two sides.
"Teams like these need space to regroup, rebuild and gradually regain strength. Our hope is that one day, they'll return to the top league," he said.
"The deadline for submission to the A1 League has passed. But since the Malaysian Football League (MFL) just announced this decision, we need to give these teams some time to make the best decision for their squads.
"At AFL, we always provide opportunities and welcome teams to continue competing.
"This way, the welfare of players and staff is protected. Just imagine if they had nowhere to play — these players would have no platform left to compete."
