FAM speaks out as Malaysian fans react to ticket prices for the match against Vietnam

FAM has come forward to justify the ticket prices for the Malaysia vs Vietnam semi-final in the Hyundai ASEAN Cup, following backlash from supporters due to the significant price hike.

Adult tickets for the general admission area of the first leg semi-final, scheduled for Sunday at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium, are priced at 50 ringgit (RM), an increase of nearly 70% from the 30 RM charged during the group stage.

Main stand tickets cost 70 RM and VIP tickets are 100 RM, while children's general admission tickets remain unchanged at 5 RM.

The price hike has led fans to criticize FAM, with some questioning whether the 50 RM fee is appropriate for a match held at the KLFA stadium.

Some opinions suggest that this price would be more acceptable if the match were held at the larger Bukit Jalil National Stadium.

In response to the criticism, FAM stated today that many factors were considered when setting the ticket prices for the semi-final.

These factors include organizational, operational, and security costs, venue management, as well as the technical requirements for hosting the tournament.

FAM added that fans' affordability and interests were also taken into account, as they remain an important part of the national team's journey.

"The ticket prices are set based on a balance between organizational costs and efforts to ensure that the national team's matches remain accessible to Harimau Malaya fans," FAM said in a statement.

"We hope fans will understand the considerations behind the ticket pricing and continue to support Harimau Malaya in the important match against Vietnam."

Malaysia will host Vietnam in the first leg semi-final at KLFA on Sunday, before traveling to Hanoi for the second leg at My Dinh National Stadium on August 19.