Sri Pahang's M-League withdrawal a 'reset,' says club legend
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Jamal Nasir believes Sri Pahang 's withdrawal from the 2025-26 M-League should not be viewed as a failure but as a reset.
The football legend, who starred for the Elephants in the 1970s, said the club must have had valid reasons to pull out of next season's competition and hopes it will allow them to regroup for a stronger return.
While he admits the decision is deeply saddening, Jamal urged fans to remain calm and understanding.
"It's heartbreaking, of course.
This club once stood among the best in the Super League and even made it to the Malaysia Cup final. Now they're stepping away, and it's not easy to accept," he said.
"I'm sad too, but what can we do? I'm sure there are unavoidable reasons behind this. Even though they obtained their national licence, perhaps there are internal issues that need to be resolved first."
The Malaysian Football League (MFL) confirmed on Friday that Sri Pahang had submitted their withdrawal letter on June 16.
The team's absence is a major blow to Malaysian football, considering their rich legacy in domestic competitions.
The Elephants have won multiple titles throughout the years, including the Super League, Malaysia Cup and FA Cup.
Their most recent silverware was the FA Cup in 2018, when they beat Selangor 2-0 in the final.
Jamal highlighted the team's past financial struggles, including unpaid salaries, and urged fans not to point fingers.
"Don't blame anyone. The management must've thought this through carefully.
"Maybe taking one step back is necessary, so they can come back stronger later.
I'm staying positive. This decision could be the beginning of something better for the club."
Sri Pahang finished eighth in the 2024-25 Super League and were runners-up in the Malaysia Cup, making their sudden withdrawal all the more shocking.
With their exit, only 13 clubs remain for the 2025-26 season — Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT), Selangor, Penang, Kuching City, Sabah, Terengganu, Negri Sembilan, Kelantan Darul Naim, KL City, Police, DPMM, Melaka and Immigration.
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