Zaliha said KLFA and KL City FC operate independently and have no formal affiliation with DBKL.

“It should be noted that DBKL’s revenue primarily comes from taxes paid by the public,” she said in a statement.

“Therefore, it is DBKL’s responsibility to ensure that taxpayer money is used optimally for the benefit and prosperity of all city residents.”

However, Zaliha acknowledged the efforts of KLFA and KL City FC in promoting football in Kuala Lumpur and expressed willingness to assist.

“I am also proud of the achievements made thus far and see great potential and a bright future for the KL City FC team,” she said.

She was responding to former KLFA president Khalid Samad, who urged DBKL to allocate 0.5% of the RM2.38 billion it collected last year to KL City FC.

Khalid said this allocation would help KL City FC avoid salary arrears and improve the team’s financial situation.

He also said the football club has only received RM3 million to cover last year’s arrears.

According to previous news reports, DBKL had provided 30% to 40% of the funds to settle arrears through an annual sponsorship, which covers the club’s operating expenses.