KUALA LUMPUR – Discussions have taken place between the football governing body and Malaysia Stadium Corporation on preparations for the upcoming Merdeka tournament and the Malaysia Cup final.
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the Malaysian Football League (MFL) met with the corporation today to work on ensuring a smooth process and the availability of Bukit Jalil National Stadium for the remainder of the year and throughout 2024.
Furthermore, discussions also focused on the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup/2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers, in which Harimau Malaya will face Kyrgyzstan.
In a statement today, FAM president Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin expressed his satisfaction with the Malaysia Stadium Corporation’s preparations, including improvements to spectator seating and field conditions.
He voiced his hope for flawless matches in these crucial events.
In addition to Hamidin, prominent figures from all three organisations participated in the discussion, including MFL president Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan, Malaysia Stadium Corporation chairman Datuk Hans Isaac, Harimau Malaya Head Coach Kim Pan Gon, and other officials from both FAM and MFL.
This year, the Merdeka tournament will feature Palestine, India, and Tajikistan, scheduled to take place at Bukit Jalil National Stadium from October 13 to 17.
Harimau Malaya will face Kyrgyzstan on November 16.
Meanwhile, the 97th edition of the Malaysia Cup tournament is set to take place on December 9.
Earlier this year, the corporation received criticism from local football fans due to the management’s preference for renting out the venue for musical concerts and programs in the midst of crucial football fixtures. – September 25, 2023.