Kuala lumpur: The Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) has assured that it will continue to monitor the National Football Development Programme (NFDP) amid concerns that financial constraints are affecting grassroots football development in the country. Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said the ministry's main focus at present is to ensure that grassroots sports development, particularly through the NFDP, continues according to its original objectives.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari emphasized the importance of engaging with the National Sports Council (MSN) and utilizing the financial allocations previously provided to achieve the main targets and objectives of the NFDP. He made these remarks after the Sportswriters Association of Malaysia (SAM)-100PLUS Awards 2025 ceremony, addressing concerns raised by NFDP technical director Datuk Ong Kim Swee regarding the programme's financial constraints.

Datuk Ong Kim Swee had highlighted the financial difficulties faced by the NFDP, which impacted the ability to send teams from various age groups for international exposure. This situation has resulted in young national players, particularly those in the under-13 to under-17 categories, missing out on a crucial platform to gain competitive international experience.

Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari reiterated the ministry's openness to discussions to ensure the continuation of the NFDP in line with its original goals. He emphasized the importance of achieving the original goals and objectives while providing space for ongoing discussions on related matters.

Regarding additional allocations for the programme, Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari stated that no decision has been made so far. Discussions are ongoing, but the ministry is currently adhering to the previous financial allocation.