KUALA LUMPUR: A businessman, who is synonymous with Paralympics, has emerged as the man who can get an ailing KL City FC back on their feet.
Datuk Seri Megat Shahriman Zaharudin intends to acquire a 51% stake in KL City, despite the club's financial struggles.
Megat, the president of the Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) could be the saviour that cash-strapped KL City have been desperately wanting for.
KL City FC chief executive officer Stanley Bernard is optimistic about the potential acquisition by Megat, pointing to the latter's wealth of experience and vision for the club's future.
"We've been on the lookout for someone with a strong sports background and the capacity to invest. It wasn't an easy search, especially knowing that Megat Shahriman is also focused on the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris. We are thrilled that he's interested in purchasing the club.
"Megat Shahriman is no stranger to Kuala Lumpur's sports scene. Having previously served as the KL Hockey Association president, he has always been passionate about sports in the city.
"He approached us with the idea about two to three months ago, and things have progressed swiftly since then."
Stanley said what makes Megat a good candidate for the ownership of KL City is his established presence in local sports and his genuine passion.
Being the PCM president requires a significant amount of dedication and passion. We had initially focused on attracting a corporate figure, but Megat Shahriman's sports background, coupled with his corporate experience, makes him an ideal candidate. Our discussions are now in the advanced stage.
Stanley believes that Megat's role as the majority shareholder (if the deal goes through) would be pivotal in steering the club towards full privatisation and transforming it from a Football Association (FA) to a Football Club (FC).
"We aim to align with the Asian Football Confederation and Malaysian Football League's privatisation efforts. This transformation could be realized with the involvement of a private investor while the FA will retain a smaller share," said Stanley.
KL City reportedly have been owing their players two to three months in salaries. The club rely heavily on financial support from Kuala Lumpur City Hall. Recently, KL City captain Paulo Josue revealed that he has not been paid for seven months.