Brunei may return to Malaysian league in future

The Ministry of Youth and Sports has not rule out the possibility of inviting Brunei to participate in the Malaysia League again in an effort to strengthen ties between the two countries through sports.

Its minister, Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the Football Association of Brunei could create a mechanism towards Brunei's participation.

"Cooperation in sports not only involves government to government but also between sports associations of both countries," he told reporters after taking part in a golf friendly with Brunei Youth and Sports Minister Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Datuk Seri Setia Awang Hazir Awang Abdullah at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club here.

Brunei played in the Malaysian League (then known as Semi-Pro League) from 1989-1993 before joining the Singapore League in 2009. Brunei last won the Malaysia Cup in 1999 after beating Sarawak 2-1 at the Merdeka Stadium.

Ahmad Shabery said the ministry would also invite Brunei to take in the Malaysia Games and the National Youth Day celebration.

Meanwhile, Awang Hazir said his visit would help strengthen ties between the two ministries after signing a memorandum of understanding in Brunei last year.

"We have identified several areas in youth and sports that could be developed and expanded to strengthen our ties," said Awang Hazir, who is at the head of a 15-member delegation, reciprocating a visit by Ahmad Shabery to Brunei last year.