Don't blame struggling clubs for Super League exits - Analyst

SHAH ALAM - The decision by several Super League clubs to withdraw from the Malaysian League (Liga-M) 2025–2026 reveals the significant challenges in sustaining participation at the highest level of local football.

Local football pundit Datuk Pekan Ramli pointed out that teams once considered giants in national football have already shown strong commitment to competing in the 13-team league.

"It’s unfair to accuse them of 'boycotting' the Super League simply because they struggle to compete or envy a team currently dominating the league.

"I believe the owners have no such intentions and would be displeased by those accusations.

"The decision to withdraw has clearly been well considered. They do not want the Super League to collapse, even if they themselves have to step back.

"There’s no sign they are encouraging other teams or clubs to follow their example," he told Sukan Sinar on Wednesday.

It was reported that Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) owner Tunku Mahkota Ismail has reportedly called out certain parties for suggesting a boycott of the upcoming Super League season.

His remarks likely referred to recent concerns surrounding Liga-M, including claims that the Super League’s quality and competitiveness have declined.

Ongoing issues such as salary arrears continue to affect some teams, raising fears about potential withdrawals in the upcoming season.

Pekan, who is also a senior lecturer at UiTM Shah Alam’s Faculty of Sports Science and Recreation, also observed that clubs considering withdrawal had worked hard and faced considerable difficulties last season, including efforts to clear salary arrears.

"The team owners are far from inactive. They are well aware of the football business and understand that investing in football carries a high risk of financial loss. We should appreciate their continued passion for the sport.

"These are not ordinary individuals. Many are prominent corporate figures and business leaders with staff capable of developing sound business strategies. This is standard for managing any investment.

"However, sometimes they must accept defeat. In business, if there’s no profit, you sell or shut it down.

"Otherwise, losses and debts only grow. They likely feel a sense of responsibility toward the players, officials, and their families," he added.