KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia has been selected as one of FIFA’s key partners in a new wave of global football development projects — including the launch of the FIFA Arena, the nation’s first-ever National Training Centre, and the Football for Schools initiative.
The announcement was made at a media briefing today, outlining FIFA’s collaboration with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the Malaysian government to enhance football infrastructure, education, and participation at all levels.
The FIFA Arena programme aims to install at least 1,000 mini football pitches worldwide, with Malaysia set to receive two under the first phase. Each 20x40m pitch will feature artificial turf, perimeter fencing, and goal systems designed for schools and underserved communities.
“We started a couple of months ago, and we’re still at the very early stages. We have built the Arenas in 20 countries, and we have 200 to go.
“Hundreds of children can benefit from this programme. This is an example of something we can do for the children,” said FIFA president Gianni Infantino during his visit to Sekolah Kebangsaan Sri Kelana in Kelana Jaya today.
“Through partnerships like this, we are paving the way for more structured and sustainable youth football programmes, not only to identify future talents but to shape a generation who value teamwork, discipline, respect, and leadership,” Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh added.
“I am pleased that Malaysian grassroots football is heading in the right direction.”
According to FIFA, the project supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting inclusivity and providing safe, accessible spaces for children to play, learn and grow.
Local contractors will oversee installation, while FIFA provides the system, training and maintenance tools.
The briefing also highlighted the upcoming Malaysia National Training Centre in Putrajaya, a landmark project supported by the FIFA Forward Development Programme and the Malaysian government.
The facility, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, is being developed on a 12.9-acre site with an estimated combined investment of USD14.7 million (RM69 million).
Phase One will include three full-sized football pitches — artificial, natural, and hybrid turf — along with floodlights, a rainwater harvesting system, and modern amenities such as a gymnasium, multipurpose room, and rehabilitation facilities.
FIFA has allocated USD5.2 million through its Forward fund for the project, while the Malaysian government has contributed USD9.5 million, underscoring its commitment to raising Malaysia’s football standards and technical capabilities.
Malaysia’s football development efforts are further strengthened through the Football for Schools (F4S) initiative, which aims to make football accessible to both boys and girls by integrating the sport into the education system.
In partnership with the Education Ministry, FAM hopes to introduce F4S into 237 schools, with equal participation from male and female teachers and students. A festival held in Penang last year saw more than 200 children take part, marking strong local enthusiasm for the programme.
Together, the projects mark a major step in positioning Malaysia as a regional hub for football excellence — from grassroots development to elite training — while supporting FIFA’s long-term vision of sustainable, inclusive growth for the global game. — October 25, 2025