PM announces RM15mil allocation for Harimau Malaya

 

Anwar Ibrahim said the RM15 million allocation is meant for the welfare of the national team and its manager and coaches, and not for the association. (EPA Images pic)

PUTRAJAYA: 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced a RM15 million allocation for the development of the Harimau Malaya football team and the welfare of its players.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said RM10 million will come from the ministry, with the remaining RM5 million contributed by private companies.

This RM15 million is specifically for the Harimau Malaya team, not for the association … it is for the manager, the coaches, and the welfare of the players. That is the priority,

 he said during the ministry’s monthly assembly here today.

Hopefully, in addition to driving economic growth and other achievements, Malaysian football will also shine. 

Anwar also gave the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) the green light to hire foreign coaches and managers if such moves can help restore the nation’s football prestige.

“If we can secure managers and coaches who truly demonstrate their commitment, then it’s fine, even if they are from abroad … perhaps for the initial stages.

I believe we can elevate the reputation and standing of Harimau Malaya,

 he said, adding that he will meet with FAM’s management and youth and sports minister Hannah Yeoh for further discussions.

Anwar also said that to ensure effective governance, a senior official from the finance ministry will be tasked to oversee the financial management of the initiative.

I will discuss with FAM to ensure their cooperation, as this is their domain and responsibility,

 he said.

The national football team faced a major setback when South Korean Kim Pan Gon suddenly resigned as head coach last July, despite his contract running until December 2025.

Following Pan Gon’s departure, assistant coach Pau Marti Vicente was made acting head coach, with E Elavarasan assisting him. - FMT