Johor Menteri Besar clarifies JDT’s revenue sources, stating public fund claims are misleading and funds are for grassroots development
JOHOR BAHRU: Allegations that Johor Darul Ta’zim Football Club receives substantial public funding are inaccurate and misleading.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said references to state bodies in financial statements are a normal part of sports sponsorship governance.
He explained that many private sponsorships are channelled through the Johor State Sports Council for administrative and tax purposes.
“Therefore, the figures cited by certain parties cannot be equated with direct government funding for the club’s operations,” he said in a Facebook post.
Onn Hafiz clarified that any government grants are specifically for grassroots sports development.
These funds support youth football programmes, district tournaments, and strengthening the state football ecosystem.
“The funds are not channelled for the operational purposes of the professional JDT team,” he stated.
He urged all parties to be responsible and verify facts before making accusations.
“The spread of inaccurate information can not only mislead the public,” he added.
It can also undermine efforts to develop a professional sports ecosystem in Johor.
