NO foreign players will be allowed in the M3 League as the third-tier tournament makes a return this season after two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Amateur Football League (AFL) have also increased the prize money, with the champions receiving RM100,000 while the runners-up will take home RM50,000.
In the previous seasons, the champions only received RM30,000.
AFL chairman Datuk Yusoff Mahadi said the increased prize purse will motivate the clubs, who had struggled in the last two years due to Covid, to put up a good showing.
"The new prize purse will motivate the clubs this season. After all, the clubs had spent a lot for the season and winning RM100,000 will further boost their spirit," said Yusoff at a leading hotel in Petaling Jaya yesterday.
Yusoff, also the FA of Malaysia (FAM) deputy president, confirmed that no clubs will be allowed to sign foreign players this season.
But he declined to confirm whether this would be a long-term ruling.
The AFL will monitor all club coaches and action will be taken if they do not have an A licence, a requirement in the M3 League.
"We will take action on those who break the rules. I hope all of the clubs will abide by the tournament rules."
Yusoff also urged teams to keep their finances in check to avoid salary issues.
"We have evaluated the financial status of all of the teams. Four teams were unable to participate this year, but we have replacements.
"We will have 20 semi-professionals teams this year." he added.
The four new teams are Tok Janggut Warriors, Tun Razak, Respect and Bukit Tambun.
After the draw yesterday, Sains FC, Malaysia University, FC Langkawi, Kinabalu Jaguar, Immigration, Manjung City, Ultimate, Tun Razak City, Langkawi City and Armed Forces were placed in Group A.
Group B comprises Perlis United, Tok Janggut, BRM, Harini KS, Kijang Rangers, KL Rovers, Bukit Tambun, PIB and Real Chukai.
The M3 League starts on Feb 11 and ends on Sept 3.