THE Cabinet Committee for Sports which met in Parliament yesterday, is concerned about the future of football in the country and Deputy Prime Minister and chairman Datuk Seri Najib Razak has asked Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob to meet with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to discuss ways on development of the sport in Malaysia.

It was also disclosed that nine states owe a total of RM4.9 million to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). In fact one state had requested a financial grant from the Sports Ministry.

"We are concerned about football in the country. Many state football associations are facing a serious financial crisis and we are looking at a sound approach on how to save the situation," said Najib after chairing yesterday's meeting.

Last week the Police Football Association, after 20 years in the league, were forced to withdraw for financial reasons.

Some states are not only owing money to government agencies but also their players who have yet to be paid their full salaries.
"I have requested the Sports Ministry to hold discussions with FAM to see how best we can overcome the problems. Not only will we be looking at the financial situation but also at the overall governance of the states' football administration. Our objective remains to bring football back to its glory days," added Najib.

Ismail Sabri said that he will meet FAM president Sultan Ahmad Shah to discuss the matter to see how best to resolve the problems plaguing football.

"I can say there will not be a financial bailout for any state or FAM as if this happens, then other associations will also do likewise," said Ismail Sabri.

"We are looking strictly at development and other areas that need assistance to ensure football regains the popularity and success it enjoyed in the past. We will get back to the committee as soon as we have our findings."

Turning to the issue of AFC House, Ismail Sabri said his ministry is still in discussion with Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah on the issue of its move away from Malaysia to another country as was wanted by AFC president Mohammad Hammam.