Latest news with #Pafa
The Star
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Perak start anew by competing in A1 Semi-Pro League next season
PETALING JAYA: Perak will compete in the A1 Semi-Pro League next season, joining their northern neighbours Kedah, who have also pledged to do so. After the previous owners said they would not compete in any competition due to finances, the Perak Football Association (Pafa) said they would chart a fresh course with renewed energy and a clear vision to reclaim their proud legacy in Malaysian football. On May 23, Kedah and Perak failed to obtain the National Licence required for participation in the 2025-2026 Super League season. Pafa's immediate focus now lies in assembling a competitive team, with the Malaysia Games (Sukma) Perak squad forming the backbone of this rebuilding phase. This team will serve as the foundation for Perak's return to prominence in the domestic scene. Plans are under way to compete in AFL-sanctioned leagues as a starting point, alongside long-term preparations for Sukma 2026, the President's Cup 2026, and Youth Cup 2026 campaigns. Now standing as the central pillar of football in the state, Pafa acknowledge the disappointment felt by fans in recent years, but calls for unity and belief. 'This is the time to come together, rebuild, and plant the seeds of renewed hope,' said Azhar. 'We don't promise miracles, but we promise extraordinary commitment, perseverance, and an unwavering fighting spirit. For the crest, for the pride, and Perak Darul Ridzuan, so stay with us.'
Malay Mail
29-04-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Perak FA respects Perak FC's M-League exit, vows to rebuild from grassroots
IPOH, April 29 — The withdrawal of Perak FC from next season's Malaysia League (M-League) was made based on a thorough assessment and a collective decision by all the team's stakeholders, according to the Perak Football Association (Pafa). Pafa president Datuk Mohd Azhar Jamaluddin said they respected the decision made by XOX Berhad due to the financial constraints faced by the company. He said they had been informed that the Board of Directors of XOX Berhad had decided to withdraw the eight-time Malaysia Cup champions from the competitions. 'Pafa deeply appreciates and extends its sincere gratitude to XOX Berhad for their contributions to the state football team through Perak FC. 'We also sympathise with the plight faced by the Perak FC players, especially the young players, and Pafa will assist within its capabilities, particularly in football development and the career pathways of young Perak players,' he said in a statement today. Mohd Azhar said that although the Perak team has been dissolved, football in the state remains 'alive' through grassroots development efforts being carried out by Pafa. 'At present, Pafa is forming the Sukma 2025/2026 squad while also considering providing exposure and experience to the Sukma squad by allowing them to compete in the A1 or A2 League. 'In addition, we will seek advice from the state government as well as from the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), the Malaysian Football League (MFL) and the Amateur Football League (AFL) on the next steps,' he said. Earlier, Perak FC chairman Datuk Seri Azim Zabidi confirmed that The Bos Gaurus squad was forced to withdraw from next season's Super League competition due to financial difficulties. — Bernama
The Star
28-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
State government can't come to troubled club's aid
PETALING JAYA: The Perak state government has announced that it is unable to address the ongoing salary issues facing the Perak football team. Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohammad explained that the government cannot provide financial assistance due to the soaring operational costs, a dilemma that many state teams across the nation are currently grappling with. 'Football in Malaysia has become increasingly burdensome financially, making it unsustainable for the state government to support,' he said. Saarani noted that this situation is precisely why a transition to private sector sponsorship was agreed upon for the club. He drew a comparison with England, stating: 'In England, while ticket prices may be high, stadiums are filled to capacity. In contrast, ticket prices in Malaysia are low with fewer attendees, yet player salaries remain elevated. This creates a financial strain that both clubs and state governments cannot bear.' Saarani emphasised that the financial constraints are not unique to Perak, urging fans to understand that other states are also unable to resolve the fiscal challenges their clubs endure. 'The Perak state government cannot help settle the salary arrears for Perak players - that responsibility rests with the sponsor,' he concluded. However, he assured that the state government remains committed to fostering football development through the Perak Football Association (Pafa), who are tasked with scouting talent across school and district competitions. 'The cost of football development is manageable, and the state has allocated approximately RM1mil to support these initiatives. We are providing the association with essential funding,' he said. In a startling announcement on Saturday, Perak confirmed that they would not participate in next year's Super League. Club chairman Datuk Seri Abdul Azim Mohd Zabidi disclosed that the club are officially up for sale, inviting any interested conglomerates or businesses to come forward. Perak, established in 1921, has a storied history, competing in every league format to date and boasting eight Malaysia Cup titles. The future of this historic club now hangs in the balance as they seek new ownership and financial stability.
New Straits Times
21-04-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Perak looking for football talent for Sukma
KUALA LUMPUR: The Perak FA (Pafa) will strengthen youth development ahead of the 2026 Malaysia Games (Sukma). In a press statement, Pafa thanked the Perak government and Perak Sports Council for entrusting them with the responsibility of forming the state's Sukma squad. Pafa has appointed Perak Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission director Datuk Ahmad Sabri Mohamed as team manager for the 2026 Sukma. Ahmad Sabri, who is also Pafa's integrity committee chairman, led Perak to the 2024 King's Gold Cup title. He will be assisted by Zainal Anuar Abdul Rashid who has five years of experience managing the state's President's Cup squad. Former national player Syamsul Mohd Saad @ Choi will take charge as head coach. Pafa is set to launch a state-wide scouting programme to unearth young footballers from every district in Perak. The initiative is not only for Sukma but also to build a long-term footballing ecosystem for the state and country.
