TFC’s RM3mil sponsorship row takes new turn as claim goes to trial

A controversy surrounding a RM3 million sponsorship deal for Terengganu Football Club (TFC) is advancing to trial, as a Kuala Terengganu High Court judge dismissed an application to rescind a third-party notice issued against businessman Suffian Muda. Vearich International Sdn Bhd had agreed to sponsor TFC for the 2024/2025 season, promising extensive branding and commercial benefits, but allegedly failed to make the first payment and claimed it was withdrawing from the sponsorship.

Vearich alleged that the agreement was arranged through misrepresentations involving Suffian and Danial Malik Fisol, suggesting Danial was the actual source of the sponsorship funds. Suffian denied these claims, stating he was not a party to the agreement and that there was no legal basis for holding him responsible. The judge acknowledged the existence of disputed facts but emphasized that the absence of a direct contractual relationship did not necessarily prevent a claim for indemnity.

The court ordered Suffian to pay Vearich RM3,000 in costs, but left the determination of fraud or misrepresentation and Vearich's liability to TFC for resolution during the trial.