Malaysian football has once again demonstrated an unexpected “strength” — off-field drama often proves more compelling than the action on the pitch.

As the 2025/2026 season approaches its conclusion, a new episode of drama has emerged in the form of a roundtable meeting involving all Super League club representatives alongside the league organiser, the Malaysian Football League (MFL).

The meeting drew significant attention, particularly due to a cameo appearance by the owner of Johor Darul Ta’zim and Regent of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, better known as TMJ.

During his brief appearance, TMJ proposed several ideas to improve the local football landscape. One of the key topics discussed was the broadcasting of the Super League.

Clubs have urged MFL to increase revenue generated from broadcasting rights. However, this appears difficult to achieve, especially with the main broadcaster, Astro, reportedly set to stop airing the Super League starting from the 2026/2027 season.

So, what is the alternative? One proposal put forward is the introduction of a pay-per-view (PPV) system, allowing local football fans to watch Super League matches through paid streaming.

This move follows global trends, where streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO Max are gaining dominance while traditional television networks lose influence among viewers.

In England, the Premier League is also reportedly exploring a similar platform, aiming to reduce reliance on broadcasting deals with television networks worldwide.

The idea has since sparked discussions among fans after TMJ raised the PPV concept during the meeting. The question remains: is it truly worthwhile and suitable?

First, we must consider its positives. A PPV streaming system would allow MFL to generate revenue directly, without relying on television networks as intermediaries.

Additionally, MFL and its partners would have full control over their platform — from content creation to programming — beyond just live match broadcasts, without third-party interference.

However, while the idea appears promising and capable of introducing a new dimension to local football, it also comes with challenges that must be addressed before being presented to fans.

The most crucial factor is pricing. The amount charged will ultimately determine whether this initiative succeeds or fails.

Malaysians are highly price-sensitive. If the cost is too high, it will undoubtedly face criticism. On the other hand, if it is too cheap, some may question the quality of the product offered.

Previously, platforms like Balrz.tv streamed friendly matches involving Super League clubs at prices ranging from RM4.90 to RM9.90 per match.

These prices seemed reasonable, didn’t they? Yet, they still attracted harsh criticism from some fans who believed matches streamed via YouTube and Facebook Live should remain free for all.

Because of this, MFL must carefully evaluate the pricing structure. Malaysians today are savvy consumers and will choose the best value available in the market.

Another critical aspect is product quality. Once fans pay for access, they will naturally expect high-quality broadcasts.

A key lesson can be drawn from when the Malaysian League was streamed on YouTube and iflix. At that time, technical issues disrupted viewing experiences, forcing organizers to abandon paid access and revert to free streaming.

Beyond pricing and quality, another pressing question arises: can PPV broadcasts of the Malaysian League actually be sold to the target audience?

Malaysian football is currently facing significant turbulence — from the scandal involving seven Harimau Malaya players to the mass resignations within the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM).

At the league level, attendance has declined sharply, partly due to a lack of on-field competitiveness, with champions often determined before the season even begins. Additionally, the absence of a second division has removed another layer of excitement — the relegation battle among lower-ranked clubs.

Fans are beginning to lose interest in the league. With the possibility of PPV being introduced, it would not be surprising if some ask, “Do I really need to pay for this?”

Even free broadcasts on television are being ignored, not to mention declining stadium attendance. This leaves stakeholders with a difficult task: to sell Malaysian football directly to its audience.

Malaysian football still has its supporters, even if the numbers are not large. Therefore, any PPV offering must present a package that fans simply cannot refuse — whether in terms of pricing or content.

Fans still love Malaysian football, but at present, they are disheartened by various ongoing issues. The sport must find a way to win them back.