MYANMAR APPEAL TO FIFA FOR MORE FUNDING

Zaw Zaw said that he had already submitted a ten-point plan to FIFA outlining the areas in which assistance are needed and they included referee training, stadium development and maintenance, accounting methods, youth development, women’s football and long-term planning.

“We still have a lot of weaknesses and we need help from international organisations like FIFA,” said Zaw Zaw.

“FIFA have previously helped us with a football academy project in Mandalay which cost USD1 million and which will open in February 2010.”

U Zaw Zaw said the MFF’s expenditure would rise dramatically next year when more of the Myanmar National League (MNL) clubs begin playing at their regional bases.

FIFA development manager for Asia, David Borja said the world football body is pleased with the progress MFF have made in 2009 and would consider supporting the federation further.

“I think 2009 has been a remarkable year for Myanmar football, it has really entered a new era and become professional,” said Borja.

“We are very impressed with the improvement and we are considering now whether to accept the MFF proposal – so far they have done a good job.”