By Associate Prof. Dr Mohamad Nizam Nazarudin, Faculty of Education
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
KOTA KINABALU: As is the case with football leagues across the globe, financial difficulties may have a major impact on teams’ ability to compete in the 2024 Malaysia Football League (MFL).
Paying players and officials might be a hurdle for the MFL as they try to keep the same number of clubs in the Super League for the next season. The team’s financial difficulties have sparked further debate, and it’s probable that the MFL may need to limit the number of teams to preserve the league’s reputation.
The return of the bookie is the biggest worry whenever the squad has money troubles. Gamblers often take advantage of financially troubled teams. Clubs’ capacity to operate and compete in a league depends heavily on their financial security.
In order to tackle these difficulties, it may be necessary for clubs, league organisers, and stakeholders to explore potential solutions, including the pursuit of supplementary financing, implementation of cost reduction strategies, and adoption of strategic financial planning.
Clubs may also consider exploring avenues for generating money and implementing financial restructuring strategies to maintain their long-term viability and continuing involvement in the league.
The acquisition of sponsors and advertising serves as a fundamental means of generating cash for several football teams. Local businesses, national firms, and worldwide brands might be considered as potential targets for outreach, contingent upon the club’s extent of influence and reputation.
Provide sponsorship packages that provide significant value in terms of increased visibility, enhanced brand recognition, and expanded marketing prospects.
The sale of club apparel, including jerseys, scarves, and other branded things, has the potential to serve as a dependable revenue stream. The provision of stuff that is both of superior quality and visually appealing has the potential to earn substantial money and enhance the level of engagement among fans.
The financial stability of a club may be enhanced by the generation of revenue from ticket sales for matches, season tickets, and memberships. One strategy to enhance fan engagement and increase attendance is by implementing a range of ticket packages and promotional offers.
The acquisition of broadcasting rights for sporting events, whether via local, national, or worldwide networks, has the potential to generate substantial revenue.
The process of negotiating broadcasting contracts has significant importance, since the attainment of success in sporting endeavours may augment the intrinsic worth of these broadcasting rights.
The process of cultivating and commercialising skilled athletes may serve as a significant revenue stream, especially for teams that prioritise the nurturing of young potential. The acquisition of transfers might result in significant financial implications, therefore necessitating meticulous management of these transactions.
Collaborating with local companies and organisations has the potential to create mutually advantageous partnerships. Clubs have the potential to get financial assistance or in-kind donations, whilst partners may gain branding prospects and increased visibility.
The establishment of the club as an important component of the community may be facilitated by the implementation of football programmes, academies, and activities that foster active participation and interaction with the local community.
This phenomenon has the potential to result in heightened endorsement, engagement, and financial backing from municipal authorities, grants, and community-based institutions.
Conduct thorough research and actively pursue grants, subsidies, and financing possibilities offered by governmental entities, sports associations, and non-profit organisations that are dedicated to promoting sports and fostering the development of kids.
Numerous funding programmes have been specially tailored to provide assistance to sports groups. Leverage crowdfunding platforms as a means to get financial resources from a dedicated base of enthusiasts and backers.
This approach may be particularly impactful when used for certain projects or activities.
Provide corporate hospitality packages and VIP experiences for patrons at sporting events. This has the potential to serve as a supplementary stream of income, offering supporters special privileges and high-quality amenities.
Develop membership programmes that provide supporters with special privileges, such as the opportunity to attend club events, view behind-the-scenes information, or exercise voting rights.
These programmes have the potential to generate continuous money and cultivate a feeling of affiliation among supporters.
Coordinate and execute various fundraising initiatives, including but not limited to charity matches, galas, auctions, and fan events, with the primary objective of generating revenue and fostering community involvement. Utilise social media and digital platforms as a means to actively interact with supporters and create income via the sale of items, digital subscriptions, and partnerships with advertisers.
Solicit investment from people or organisations with a vested interest in acquiring ownership or providing financial backing to the team. This may include the sale of shares or the acquisition of a majority owner who has the capacity to provide financial stability.
Formulate a comprehensive financial plan including the essential components of budgeting, expense management, and methods for achieving long-term financial sustainability. The exhibition of prudent fiscal administration has the ability to attract prospective investors and sponsors.
The potential ramifications of financial issues on the MFL in 2024 would be contingent upon the unique circumstances of each team and the league’s collective financial well-being during that period.
