KUALA LUMPUR: Kelantan have announced their withdrawal from the A1 Semi-Pro League after failing to secure a national licence.
In a statement on Friday, The Red Warriors owner, Norizam Tukiman, cited several factors for the decision, including unresolved salary arrears.
"After careful consideration, the club's priority is to address internal matters such as wage arrears to players from last season and other Fifa cases to preserve the Kelantan FC name.
"Kelantan FC believe that settling the existing arrears is essential before embarking on new endeavours. With a heavy heart and a sense of responsibility, Kelantan FC have decided to withdraw from the 2024 MBSB Bank Championship.
"We apologise for any inconvenience and disappointment caused to the AFL (Amateur Football League) and other notable parties," said Norizam.
Norizam also extended his apologies to fans for the club's poor performance in the 2023 Super League.