Malaysian Football League increases local player registration quota

The Malaysian Football League (MFL) Board of Directors has approved an increase in the local player registration quota for all clubs participating in the 2026/2027 Malaysian League season. The maximum number of players a club can register will rise from 33 to 38, specifically adding five additional slots for local players. Under the new rules, clubs can register up to 15 foreign players and 23 local players.

The decision follows requests from Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and Kuching City FC, both of which face congested schedules due to participation in international competitions such as the AFC Champions League Elite, AFC Champions League 2, and the ASEAN Club Championship.

Club officials, including the CEO of Kuching City FC, noted that the expansion helps manage squad depth and injury risks, particularly for teams without reserve clubs. The move is also intended to provide more opportunities for local players without contracts and for youth players transitioning to senior squads, while ensuring compliance with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.