The Malaysia national football team played as Malaya until 1963.  The team represented the Federation of Malaya. Since the change results have been good for the small nation. The team has performed well at several international competitions, including the 1972 Olympics.

A product of British rule, Malaysia embraced football in the early 1900’s. By 1933 the national team was playing international matches. FIFA affiliation came in 1956.

Football remains one of the most popular sports in Malaysia. Rugby union, badminton and traditional sports also have a large following.

In recent years footballing success has dwindled amidst a lack of finances and scandals. Malaysia had a good year in 2010 when they won the Suzuki Cup.

Malaysia first entered a world cup in 1974, and have done so for every tournament since. Despite this reliability they have never qualified for the competition proper.