KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Football League (MFL) has defended the decision by the independent First Instance Body (FIB) to extend the deadline for Super League clubs to submit documents for the 2025/26 national licensing cycle.
In a statement issued today, the league said the FIB’s decision was made in accordance with the MFL Club Licensing Regulations 2024–2025, under which the body has the authority to adjust key deadlines in specific circumstances.
“The FIB has taken note of the recent statements made by Super League clubs via social media regarding the submission deadline for club licensing documents,” MFL said.
“The FIB appreciates the commitment of clubs that completed the upload process before or on April 30 via the AFC CLAS licensing system and complied with the original deadline.
“However, following written requests from several clubs, the FIB considered appeals for an extension.”
The FIB acted under Articles 7 and 8(a) of the licensing regulations, which allow decision-making bodies to regulate deadlines based on the principles of natural justice and case-by-case evaluation.
MFL said the new deadline of May 10 aims to give clubs a final window to complete submissions, while maintaining procedural fairness.
The clarification comes a day after Penang FC publicly criticised the extension, warning it could set a worrying precedent and encourage financial mismanagement among clubs.
Penang FC stressed its own adherence to governance standards but voiced concerns about the implications of relaxed deadlines.
“The loopholes provided could cause clubs facing financial difficulties to postpone any restructuring measures or resolutions that should be taken immediately,” the club said. — May 2, 2025