Kuala lumpur: Malaysia Athletics (MA) has clarified that the application for affiliation submitted by the Federal Territories Athletics Association (FTAA) was received a few days before the Hari Raya Aidilfitri period, but several required supporting documents were not included in the submission.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MA emphasized that under its constitution, the formation of FTAA must comprise valid representations from Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya. Additionally, the affiliation process must undergo proper review and formal endorsement by the MA Council in accordance with the association's governance procedures.

The application was received after the most recent MA Council Meeting held in early March, and the matter will therefore be tabled at the next council meeting for due consideration. "As such, all parties are respectfully urged to allow this process to take place in accordance with MA's Constitution and established governance practices," the statement said.

MA added that it welcomes the involvement and guidance of relevant authorities, including the Commissioner of Sports (PJS), and remains committed to upholding the principles of good governance and sporting integrity in the best interest of national athletics development.

The governing body assured that no athletes or officials would be disadvantaged throughout the process. Athletes from the Federal Territories who have qualified for upcoming competitions will continue to receive support and will not be excluded, while officials have not missed opportunities to participate in the Technical Officials Examination scheduled for April 2026.

MA emphasized that the focus of athletics should remain on performance, development, and unity, rather than unnecessary controversy that could affect the reputation and progress of the sport in the country.

Yesterday, a news portal reported that Sports Commissioner Arrifin Ghani is expected to call MA for a meeting early next week to explain the alleged delay in granting affiliate status to the FTAA. Arrifin stated that the application submitted was complete and complied with all requirements, adding that his office had approved FTAA's constitution on July 7, 2025, with the approval circulated to relevant parties, including MA, 11 days later.