Stadium body apologises for pitch condition ahead of final match

The Stadium Malaysia Corporation (PSM) has apologised for the “sorry” condition of the Bukit Jalil National Stadium pitch for the 2023 Malaysia Cup Final match tonight.

In doing so, the authority also acknowledged that it does not have the time to fix the situation, with just hours remaining before the match between Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Terengganu FC.

“PSM apologises to the organiser of the Malaysia Cup 2023 Malaysian Football League (MFL), to (both) the JDT and Terengganu FC (teams), and all national football fans for the 'less than satisfactory' condition of the Bukit Jalil Stadium pitch for the match tonight.

“PSM does not have enough time to fix and return the pitch to an optimum condition, after the Coldplay concert on Nov 22. PSM is committed to improving the standard operating procedures for events at the stadium in the future,” it said in a statement.

More than 85,000 people are expected to flood the Bukit Jalil Stadium tonight for the much-anticipated final clash between three-time champion and defending champion JDT and Terengganu FC who are gunning for their second title after their last victory in 2001.

The condition of the stadium pitch has come under criticism lately, with some reports likening it to “torn jeans with patches on them”.

The uneven terrain has raised concerns about possible injuries to the players during the match. It reportedly became so after the concert by British band Coldplay last month.

Previously, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said there is no cost involved in restoring the pitch of the stadium, which was damaged by the concert.

She said this is because there is a nursery site near the stadium with Zeon Zoysia grass that can be immediately replaced if the pitch surface is damaged.

"So, when repairs (of the pitch) have to be done, it does not involve costs because the nursery site already exists.

"So don't worry, Malaysia Stadium Corporation will ensure the pitch is ready for upcoming matches," she reportedly said.

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