Prize money doubled but pro clubs crowd A1 Semi-Pro League
Amateur Football League (AFL) chairman Datuk Yusoff Mahadi said the financial boost is aimed at lifting the standard and intensity of the competition.
"We've increased the prize money to RM200,000 for the new season. It's a 100 per cent jump. While it may not sound like much, it's a move to inject more excitement and competitiveness," said Yusoff, who is also FA of Malaysia (FAM) deputy president.
However, the make-up of the 16 confirmed teams has triggered concerns, with several professional outfits and feeder squads included, raising questions about the league's semi-pro status.
Among the teams are top-tier reserve sides JDT II and Selangor II, as well as Immigration II, Kelantan WTS, Armed Forces, Malaysian University, Manjung City, Bunga Raya, Perlis GSA, UM-Damansara United, Machan, and South Korean amateur outfit FC Seoul Phoenix.
Also entering are former Super League sides Kedah Darul Aman and Perak, both of whom failed to obtain national licences.
Their inclusion brings top-flight experience but adds to the growing imbalance.
Under AFL rules, teams must have at least 10 contracted players to qualify as semi-pro.
But Yusoff admitted many clubs are fielding fully professional squads.
"Although the minimum is 10 contracted players, several teams have gone full professional. It's almost a pro league now, just under a semi-pro label," he said.
The shift has led to concerns that the league — meant as a bridge between amateur and professional levels — is being skewed in favour of clubs with superior infrastructure, threatening its development-focused purpose.
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