KUALA LUMPUR — Kedah FC and Perak FC may have missed out on Super League slots next season, but both sides have been given a lifeline to remain active in Malaysian football by competing in the A1 League (second division), says Amateur Football League (AFL) chairman Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi.
Speaking to Scoop, Yusoff said the AFL would welcome the participation of Kedah and Perak, after both teams were denied a place in the Super League due to their failure to secure a national licence.
He stressed that the amateur competition could serve as a platform for the clubs to remain competitive, rather than becoming “buried”.
Both teams were barred from obtaining a club licence by the Malaysian Football League (MFL) after failing to meet licensing criteria—particularly the requirement to settle outstanding financial arrears before applying.
The development was confirmed in a statement yesterday by Sheikh Mohd Nasir Sheikh Mohd Shariff, chairman of the MFL’s First Instance Body (FIB).
In contrast, Sri Pahang FC—previously hampered by financial woes and speculation of withdrawal following a failed takeover by Genting Plantations Berhad—was granted a licence and will remain in the top flight.
“We don’t want teams to disappear the moment they fall. The A1 League gives Kedah and Perak a platform to stay alive and keep fighting,” said Yusoff.
“The AFL and A1 League are ready to include them in our competitions, but the decision now lies with the teams—whether they choose to apply or not.
“These are historic teams with a huge fan base. Competing in the second division at least allows them to stay engaged with supporters and generate some revenue, rather than nothing at all.”
Yusoff, who also serves as deputy president of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), said the clubs’ relegation should be seen as part of a recovery process, giving them space to restructure and prepare for a return to the elite level.
“Teams like these need time to breathe, clean up their internal issues, regroup, and gradually rebuild their strength.
“Our hope is that they will eventually return to the Super League,” he said.
Meanwhile, the MFL has confirmed that 14 teams will compete in the Super League next season, following the inclusion of Brunei-based DPMM FC as an invited side.
Melaka FC and Imigresen FC, champions and runners-up of last season’s A1 League, have also earned promotion and will feature in the top division in 2025. — May 23, 2025