The FIFA ASEAN Cup will be held during the FIFA international match window.

However, the organization of the tournament is drawing attention amid disagreements related to FIFA President Gianni Infantino's proposal to establish the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE). The European Football Association (UEFA) opposes the proposal, arguing that football tournaments are not assets that FIFA can arbitrarily transfer, while also expressing concerns about transparency, governance mechanisms, and the growing trend of commercialization in football.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has also expressed disappointment over the lack of consultation and proper discussion procedures. The AFC stated that it learned about the proposal only through media reports, rather than through direct communication from FIFA. Nevertheless, FIFA continues to defend the initiative, asserting that it retains full control over football governance and professional decisions.

Despite the off-field debates, interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe affirmed that the Malaysian national team will remain focused on professional matters, aiming to prepare as best as possible for the upcoming clashes against Indonesia, Singapore, and India in Jakarta. According to the plan, the Malaysian national team will travel to Thailand for the third matchday of Group B in the 2026 ASEAN Cup. The 58-year-old tactician stated that the most important task now is to help Malaysian players reach their best condition before the tournament kicks off in Jakarta (Indonesia) next September.

According to the draw results, Malaysia is placed in Group A of Division One alongside hosts Indonesia, Singapore, and India. The tournament is scheduled to take place from September 24 to October 3. Mr. Tan Cheng Hoe acknowledged that Malaysia will face a challenging group, with Indonesia seen as the top contender for the group's first place thanks to home advantage and a strong squad. Additionally, the other two opponents cannot be underestimated, as Singapore is actively preparing for the Asian Cup finals, while India boasts several players capable of making a difference.