KUALA LUMPUR: A recent announcement by Indonesia FA (PSSI) president Erick Thohir has ignited widespread debate after he revealed a staggering Rp277 billion (RM77 million) incentive for the national team and its programmes in 2025.
The sizeable allocation, disclosed on social media, has prompted comparisons with the budget allocated to the FA of Malaysia (FAM) for Harimau Malaya.
In his statement, Thohir expressed gratitude for the support: "Thank you to Mr. President (Prabowo Subianto) for the allocation of Rp277 billion for the Indonesian national team and PSSI programmes for next year.
"The president's commitment to the progress of Indonesian football is truly extraordinary."
Thohir, who also serves as Indonesia's Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, further revealed that the Garuda had secured additional corporate sponsorships worth between RM139 million and RM166.8 million, further boosting their resources.
In stark contrast, the Malaysian government recently announced RM15 million in funding for the Harimau Malaya, a figure dwarfed by Indonesia's backing.
FAM local competitions committee chairman Firdaus Mohamed acknowledged the critical role finances play in footballing success.
"Any country aiming for success must first address the financial side — we cannot ignore this reality. RM15 million, and previously RM10 million, isn't much," said Firdaus.
"But without adequate funding translating into tangible results, we must treat football like a business. If there's no return on investment (ROI), what is the incentive to increase financial support?"
Firdaus highlighted Indonesia's government-driven approach as a potential model for Malaysia.
"In Indonesia, football is seen as a national project, one that could prosper. Their leaders probably discussed this in cabinet meetings," he noted.
Firdaus stressed the urgent need for Malaysia's private sector to step up and invest in local football.
"We know football isn't always profitable, but corporations need to be directly involved, not just indirectly. They can help raise the profile of local football.
"If football clubs and FAM continue to rely on government funding, it limits potential. Corporate and private entities need to step up," he added.
Transparency in fund allocation, Firdaus said, is key to attracting private investment.
"Corporate sponsors should know where their contributions go — whether to grassroots programmes or infrastructure development.
"We already have tax exemptions for corporate sponsors in sports, but we need to increase that percentage," he suggested.
The lack of corporate investment in Malaysian football becomes starker when compared with neighbouring nations.
Last year, the Football Federation of Cambodia (FFC) invested US$5 million (RM22.3 million) into national team development, management, infrastructure and youth programmes.
Meanwhile, countries like Japan, China, South Korea and Thailand have attracted significant corporate investments.
In 2022 alone, Japan secured US$452.5 million (RM2 billion), China US$320.5 million (RM1.4 billion), South Korea US$98.5 million (RM438 million) and Thailand US$89.6 million (RM399 million) in corporate sponsorships.