KUALA LUMPUR: The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has identified two major local companies as potential sponsors and is expected to sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with both in the near future.
FAM Media and Marketing Committee chairman Datuk Syed Mahadi Syed Hassan said the two companies had already given their commitment, with discussions now focused on finalising the MoUs.
“In the near future, we expect to secure new sponsors that we have identified and who have already given their commitment. God willing, we will sign MoUs with the new sponsors soon,” he said during a meeting with media practitioners here last night.
Syed Mahadi, who is also a member of FAM’s Executive Committee, declined to disclose the companies’ identities but confirmed that the sponsorships would involve both FAM and the national football team, Harimau Malaya.
On reports that sponsors had withdrawn their support, he said he had yet to receive clear information regarding the matter.
Meanwhile, Syed Mahadi said FAM aimed to move away from a fragmented working culture by bringing its media, marketing, communications, digital and commercial functions together as one team.
He said a more structured and integrated approach was essential to ensure the association’s initiatives resonated with fans and helped enhance the image of Malaysian football.
“FAM and Malaysian football can only achieve greater success if we cultivate teamwork and move away from a silo mentality,” he said.
He added that the media played a role beyond delivering news and information, as it could also shape public perceptions and influence how society viewed the sport.
FAM regarded the media as a strategic partner in building public confidence, strengthening its image and elevating the standing of Malaysian football, he said.
Syed Mahadi also welcomed feedback, suggestions and constructive criticism from media practitioners as part of the association’s efforts to address weaknesses and improve its administration.
He was elected to FAM’s Executive Committee for the remainder of the 2025–2029 term at the association’s second Extraordinary Congress in September 2026, before being appointed to lead the Media and Marketing portfolio.
Syed Mahadi is also the chief executive officer of Star City.
-AWANI
