Sarawak Utd players facing eviction from homes

KOTA KINABALU: This is one of the M-League's saddest stories. Sarawak United footballers face the humiliation of being kicked out of their homes.

And they are already facing financial problems putting food on the table for their families.

They are in debts not because of their fault.

If you are not paid a single sen for four months, you would be in their place too.

That is what the affected Sarawak United players are claiming. And that what FAM or MFL should look into and not allow this non-payment nonsense to go on for so long. Four months! Enough for your car to be repossessed or credit cards companies to go after you.

Some of the players have already received eviction notices, some have been contacted by banks over non-payment of housing loans, car instalments and personal loans.

A Sarawak United footballer, who declined to be named, said the entire squad are facing financial woes.

"Rent is not being paid, there's not even enough money to eat. Sometimes to get to training, we don't even have money to pay for petrol."

"Banks are calling to settle loans… it's so stressful especially for those with families and young children. Even the bachelors are feeling the money pinch."

Despite the adversities, the players managed to get four wins and two draws out of 17 matches. They are 11th on the table in the 12-team Super League.

On Wednesday, the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM) revealed the plight of the Sarawak United players after receiving complaints from them.

"On June 14, PFAM sent a notice to Sarawak regarding the players' claims. A follow-up notice was then sent on July 8," said PFAM in a statement.

"We have received a response from the club on the settlement of these arrears, but until now, it has not been settled fully."

Responding to the issue, Sarawak United president Datuk Posa Majais said everything will be paid by next week, at the latest.

Posa, who is also a FAM vice president, said the funds to pay the arrears have been approved, and the matter will be solved in stages.

"The allocation to pay the salaries amounts to RM2 million, and it has been approved. S the players will receive their money," said Posa.

"I have to stress here that we are not taking things lightly. It's just that we are waiting for the green light for the allocation of money first."

Before the start of the season, Sarawak United players had reportedly suffered from the same issues with salaries not paid for as long as three months.

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