In summary, MFL is cautious about the costs and challenges associated with introducing VAR for the Malaysia Cup final and aims to prioritize local expertise in its implementation. The decision on VAR usage will follow the completion of a VAR training course for local referees. FAM is actively preparing referees and relay operators for this purpose, with FIFA’s assessment expected in March of the next year.Referee (VAR) system and appointing a foreign referee qualified to manage it for the 2023 Malaysia Cup final. Stuart emphasized the need for prudent spending and a focus on local expertise in implementing VAR in the Malaysia League (M-League). The decision to use VAR in the final will be determined after a VAR course involving local referees in December.
Stuart mentioned that budget and resource constraints are the main challenges, citing the high expenses incurred during the 2022 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup final for VAR rental and installation. He also highlighted issues with infrastructure, internet coverage, and the availability of local referees as obstacles to using VAR effectively.
Stuart, along with Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) secretary-general Datuk Noor Azman Rahman, visited the second phase of VAR training involving 40 local referees and 14 relay operators. FAM is preparing these referees and operators through a three-phase course, with the third phase scheduled for November and December. FIFA will assess the suggested referees in March of the following year.
In summary, MFL is cautious about the costs and challenges associated with introducing VAR for the Malaysia Cup final and aims to prioritize local expertise in its implementation. The decision on VAR usage will follow the completion of a VAR training course for local referees. FAM is actively preparing referees and relay operators for this purpose, with FIFA’s assessment expected in March of the next year.