FIFA President Infantino's High-Level Agenda in Malaysia Centred on Football Development

By Izhar Safuan

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia - Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) President Gianni Infantino is scheduled to make a highly anticipated official visit to Malaysia next week, capitalizing on the presence of regional leaders at the 47th ASEAN Summit (Oct 26-28) to push a comprehensive agenda for football growth in Southeast Asia.

The focus of the visit is strictly fixed on grassroots advancement, infrastructure support, and high-level regional cooperation, according to sources close to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM).

Mr. Infantino's itinerary includes three key action points designed to solidify FIFA's commitment to the region:

• ASEAN Development Pact: The President is expected to witness the signing of a major regional agreement. This pact aims to strengthen the collective football ecosystem among ASEAN member nations, signaling a significant diplomatic move for the sport in the region.

• Infrastructure Assessment: A scheduled stop at the National Training Centre (NTC) in Putrajaya is planned. This assessment will allow FIFA representatives to review the modern facilities designed to support the long-term vision for Malaysian football development.

• Grassroots Promotion: The agenda includes a visit to the Football for Schools programme in Kelana Jaya. This initiative is crucial for promoting widespread football participation and leveraging the sport for community engagement among students.

The visit, described as a strategic opportunity to strengthen ties between the Malaysian football body and FIFA, comes as global attention focuses on the region’s commitment to integrity and future growth.