Football funding omission is a 'strategic signal' to FAM, not neglect - Analysts

SHAH ALAM – The government’s decision not to allocate direct funding for national football in Budget 2026 has drawn attention from analysts, who believe the move reflects a deliberate push for accountability and reform within the sport, rather than outright neglect.

While no specific allocation was announced for football, economists said the move could signal a pause to reassess governance and performance issues before new public funds are channelled into the sector.

Universiti Teknologi Mara Malaysian Academy of SME & Entrepreneurship Development coordinator of the Student Entrepreneurship Centre Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said the absence of direct funding suggested a “prudent and reform-driven” approach.

He said the government was prioritising transparency and accountability in sports management, allowing time for systemic improvements before committing further financial support.

“This decision sends a strong message about responsible stewardship of public funds while creating an opportunity for the football ecosystem to rebuild integrity and performance through sustainable reform,” he said when contacted recently.

Meanwhile, Malaysia University of Science and Technology professor Emeritus Dr Barjoyai Bardai also viewed the omission as a strategic signal rather than a withdrawal of support.

“Several factors may have influenced the move, including fiscal tightening, pending reforms within the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the government’s focus on other priorities such as TVET education (RM7.9 billion) and infrastructure development (RM81 billion),” he added.

He said the government’s silence on football funding could indicate that “accountability must precede financial support,” particularly in sectors that have faced governance scrutiny.

Economist and policy analyst Dr Geoffrey Williams said there is no indication that football funding has been reduced, adding that allocations are likely to remain similar to previous years despite the budget speech's lack of specific mention.