KUALA LUMPUR — The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) does not need additional financial assistance from the government to complete the ongoing National Training Centre (NTC) project.
Despite delays, FAM deputy president Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi told Scoop that, ahead of the Budget 2025 tabling on October 18, the association is confident it can finish the RM65 million project within the established timeline.
The NTC project, which broke ground in Putrajaya in 2022, was initially delayed due to uncertain circumstances.
The project is being executed in two phases. Phase one, supported by a RM21 million allocation from FIFA, commenced in June this year after a long delay. It is expected to be completed within two years.
Phase two will include the construction of a covered training centre, gymnasium, and additional facilities, with work anticipated to begin by late 2025.
“We have sufficient funds, thanks to our pre-planning and allocations for this project,” Yusoff said.
“The NTC is our dream project, and we will ensure its timely completion for the betterment of Malaysian football.”
Yusoff also expressed gratitude for the government’s past support, particularly the RM10 million allocated by former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob for the groundbreaking ceremony in 2022.
However, he emphasised that FAM is not expecting any additional funding from the government, although they would welcome it if offered.
The NTC was initially part of the larger Sultan Ahmad Shah Soccer City development, launched in 2019.
The project spans 42.43 acres in Putrajaya’s Presint 5 and includes a 10,000-seat football stadium, the AFC headquarters, and the AFF headquarters. — October 9, 2024