FIFA Places 9 Malaysian Football Clubs On Its Transfer Ban List
Over 60 clubs across Asia currently face similar restrictions.
Cover image via A FIFA-imposed transfer ban has disrupted the plans of nine Malaysian football clubs, including top-flight sides Terengganu FC and Kelantan Darul Naim FC, over unresolved financial disputes and regulatory breaches
According to the New Straits Times, the sanctions place Malaysia among a growing list of Asian nations grappling with football governance issues.
Over 60 clubs across the continent currently face similar restrictions, with Saudi Arabia and China leading the count.
A FIFA transfer ban prevents clubs from registering new players until the ban is lifted. It lasts two to three transfer windows and can end sooner if issues like unpaid debts are resolved.
Image via New Straits Times
The FIFA registration ban list includes Terengganu, Kelantan Darul Naim, Kelantan FC, Kelantan FA, PT Athletic FC, Sarawak United, Perlis, Melaka United FC, and Melaka United
Perlis remains one of the longest-suspended sides, having been under sanction since 2020.
The bans have rekindled long-standing concerns about financial oversight and operational sustainability in Malaysian football — issues that, for now, remain largely unaddressed.
Image via New Straits Times / AFP
Meanwhile, Terengganu FC have moved to downplay their inclusion, insisting their case has been closed
In a statement posted on their official website, the east coast side claimed the issue stemmed from a dispute with a former foreign staff member over a five-figure allowance, which they say has already been settled.
"The issue shouldn't even be played up as it was resolved in April. FIFA confirmed the settlement on 21 April and gave five days for the claimant to acknowledge receipt of payment. That window has passed," the club explained, adding that the issue is being sensationalised.
While speculation swirled around a salary issue involving former striker Ivan Mamut, the Croatian clarified that he filed no complaint with FIFA, suggesting unrelated infractions are at play.
Image via New Straits Times / Terengganu FC
