KUALA LUMPUR: Sports pundit Datuk Dr. Pekan Ramli has voiced his concerns over the recent decision by Malaysian Football League (MFL) to let certain teams have a maximum quota of 12 foreign players.
Pekan feels that this could set a negative precedent for the M-League.
Pekan highlighted three critical areas — priority, fairness, and direction — which he believes warrant urgent clarification from MFL.
While acknowledging that the quota applies only to four Super League teams for international tournaments, Pekan argued that it may create a sense of inequality among other teams.
The teams are Johor Darul Ta'zim (who compete in Asian Champions League Elite), Selangor (Asian Champions League 2), Terengganu and Sabah (both in Asean Club Championship).
"This decision could paint a negative picture for fans and stakeholders, leading them to question the advantages given to select teams.
"Why should foreign players represent Malaysia on a continental stage?" said Pekan, who stressed that while the ultimate goal is to win, local talent development must also be considered.
Pekan, who is concerned over the lack of priority for growth of local players in the league, said: "Maintaining the same rules in the Super League, but altering the conditions for the MFL Cup (Reserve League) creates confusion. Decisions should not be made in isolation, they must consider the broader impact on all teams. Is this truly the way to enhance competitiveness?"
He said such policies may hinder aspiring clubs, making them feel disadvantaged and diminishing their
ambitions.
"This approach risks discouraging other teams from dreaming big, reinforcing the notion that opportunities are reserved for those in AFC and AFF competitions."
Meanwhile, Pekan expressed scepticism about the Sports Ministry's move to consult the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) on making improvements to the National Football Development Programme (NFDP).
"This should primarily be the responsibility of the FAM. Such isolated initiatives could lead to unwanted government intervention, which may come with its own challenges," said Pekan.
He said FAM or an outsourced agency should lead these discussions, stressing the need for a thorough evaluation of the NFDP's effectiveness.