FOMEMA Foreign Worker Cup 2026 Underscores Foreign Workers’ Role, Promotes Inclusion

PETALING JAYA, Feb 5 (Bernama) -- Far from their families and familiar support systems, foreign workers continue to shoulder some of Malaysia’s most demanding jobs, quietly contributing to national development in sectors often described as dirty, dangerous and difficult.

Recognising these sacrifices, FOMEMA Sdn Bhd is organising the inaugural FOMEMA Foreign Worker Cup 2026 (Futsal Edition) tournament in Petaling Jaya, this Saturday (Feb 7), as a platform to promote health, well-being and social inclusion among the foreign workforce.

FOMEMA chief executive officer Dr Mohd Afiq Farhan Md Hanif said the initiative reflects the organisation’s evolving approach towards foreign worker health, moving towards a more holistic focus on physical and mental well-being.

“Foreign workers are critical drivers of Malaysia’s economic sustainability, yet being away from home can pose significant physical and emotional challenges. Through sports, we want to create a sense of community where they feel seen, valued and supported.

“This tournament will serve as a platform for us to encourage work-life balance among foreign workers, who often work on shift and in challenging environments, while bringing together all our stakeholders, including government agencies and employers under one roof,” he told Bernama.

Dr Mohd Afiq said the tournament complements FOMEMA’s core mandate as a medical examination operator for foreign workers in Malaysia with over 5,000 panel service providers, by reinforcing preventive healthcare through physical activity and healthy habits.

“Encouraging these behaviours supports overall well-being and helps foreign workers maintain better health throughout the year, which in turn contributes to public health resilience and workforce sustainability,” he added.

He said futsal was chosen mainly due to its accessibility and familiarity among foreign workers of various nationalities, allowing participation without disrupting work commitments while still offering an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Dr Mohd Afiq said seven foreign worker teams, along with a FOMEMA team, will be participating in the inaugural edition. The tournament will be held in a league format, followed by a knockout phase.

Beyond the matches, participants can look forward to health and wellness booths, stand a chance in winning exciting lucky draw prizes, and friendly competition with team and individual awards, making the event a blend of sport, wellness and community engagement.

The champions will walk away with RM5,000 in prize money, followed by RM3,000 and RM1,000 for the second- and third-placed teams respectively, with the top three finishers also receiving medals and certificates.

In addition, the Best Player and Best Goalkeeper will each receive a RM500 voucher.

Dr Mohd Afiq said the initiative also benefits employers by strengthening trust and relationships with their workforce, boosting morale and demonstrating commitment to responsible and environmental, social and governance (ESG)-aligned practices.

More importantly, he said the FOMEMA Foreign Worker Cup 2026 sends a clear message that foreign workers are valued not just for their labour, but as individuals whose health, dignity and sense of belonging matter.

Asked about plans to organise the tournament on a larger scale in the future, he said the current edition is intended to serve as a starting point to deliver a safe, well-managed and meaningful experience for all participants.

“This is the first time ever we are organising fun and sports competition. Previously, we did organise health talks for foreign workers and webinars to provide the latest updates on the foreign workers medical examination processes. We will assess outcomes and gather feedback from employers and foreign workers before considering future editions or the possibility of expanding into other sports.

“Any continuation of the initiative will be guided by its ability to deliver real value, benefit both employers and foreign workers, and remain aligned with national public health priorities,” he said.

-- BERNAMA