KUALA LUMPUR: The only way for Melaka United and Sarawak United, who were booted out of the M-League, to remain relevant in Malaysian football is by starting from the bottom.
And the Amateur Football League (AFL), the organisers of the M3, M4 and M5 leagues, are offering them a lifeline.
However, the AFL have not received any query or application from the two teams to play in the lower league.
On Tuesday, Melaka and Sarawak failed in their appeals to remain in the M-League.
The Malaysian Football League (MFL) took a tough stand as both clubs failed to pay their players and officials.
AFL chief operating officer Raimi Fakri said Melaka and Sarawak have not applied to play in the 2023 season.
However, registration is open until the end of this month.
"Their appeals were rejected only on Tuesday, so they are probably still looking at options," said Raimi today.
"Melaka and Sarawak were not relegated because of their positions in the Super League this year. They were demoted due to other issues.
"Based on our regulations, both teams must start from the lowest tier of Malaysian football, which is the M5.
"The AFL board will discuss if they receive their applications."
Raimi said a circular was recently sent out to the 14 participating teams for next season's M3.
"We had 20 clubs in this year's M3, but we are only looking at a 14-team competition next season. Clubs have certain criteria to fulfil to play in M3. It is similar to the M-League licensing requirements," he added.
In 2020, Felda United and UKM were booted out of the M-league after failing to obtain a club licence. Both teams ceased operations following the decision by MFL.