KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysia Football League (MFL) has been urged to review several regulations related to the media covering 2021 Super League and Premier League matches that are scheduled to begin on March 5.
Sportwriters Association of Malaysia (SAM) president Datuk Jasnie Shafie said it was excessive and burdensome that the Malaysia League’s (M-League) organisers had required all media personnel, including photographers and cameramen, to undergo the RTK-Antigen test for each match.
He said the regulation would increase operational costs for media personnel during the current Covid-19 pandemic, with each test costing RM100 to RM159 for each person.
“Imagine the expense that the media has to bear for each match, especially if it lasts throughout the season. Not only must the cost from a financial viewpoint be considered, but also the amount of time spent on the tests.
“SAM understands that MFL as the local football league organiser is only carrying out its duties based on the guidelines provided by the Health Ministry and the National Security Council, but MFL has to consider the financial impact on media personnel,” he said in a statement today.
Jasnie also said the ban on reporters interviewing coaches and players during training seemed “nonsensical” as it could be done according to the existing standard operating procedures.
He said SAM would seek assistance from Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican to bring the matter to the National Security Council and Health Ministry for a workable solution.
“The media always supports the resumption of all sporting activities through the sports bubble method being implemented, but freedom and access to the media should also be emphasised,” he said.
The 2021 M-League will begin on March 5 with the Charity Shield clash between Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim and Kedah Darul Aman FC at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri, Johor. – Bernama, February 27, 2021
