Malaysian football fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief after months of uncertainty over access to the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the government confirming that Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and Unifi TV will officially broadcast the tournament nationwide.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the move reflects the government’s commitment to ensure Malaysians can enjoy the tournament in an inclusive, legal and comprehensive manner through collaboration between the public and private sectors.
The World Cup will be available across multiple platforms, including free-to-air broadcasting via MYTV as well as digital streaming through RTMKlik and Unifi TV, allowing fans to follow the action both on television and online.
Unifi TV will air all 104 matches live, while RTM will broadcast a majority of the games either live or on delay, offering viewers flexibility in how they watch football’s biggest event.
Details of the broadcasting arrangement are still being finalised, although industry sources said negotiations had stretched on for months due to significantly higher rights fees imposed for this edition of the tournament. Some parties claimed the costs were in the region of RM100 million, while others suggested the figure was even higher.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada, is expected to be the largest edition in history following the tournament’s expanded format. FIFA president Gianni Infantino previously described the event as potentially becoming the biggest live broadcast spectacle ever amid strong ticket demand and near-capacity stadium expectations.
Beyond the matches themselves, dedicated studio programmes will be produced mainly in Bahasa Melayu with selected English segments, while updates will also be featured on Selamat Pagi Malaysia.
Public viewing events are also expected to be organised at selected locations nationwide, turning the tournament into a shared viewing experience for local fans despite many matches likely taking place during early morning Malaysian hours due to time zone differences.
The confirmation is also expected to provide a boost for local businesses, particularly mamak outlets, hotels and restaurants that traditionally attract crowds during major football tournaments.
Several key sponsors have also been identified and are in the process of finalisation, with further announcements expected ahead of the tournament.
