AFC Non-Elite Women Referees and Assistant Referees course held in Kuala Lumpur

The main objective of the four-day course was to identify potential referees and assistant referees to be promoted to the AFC Elite Panel, with the opportunity to officiate regional, continental and international tournaments, as well as be part of further assessments and future developments.

AFC Director of Referees Shamsul Maidin, who gave the opening remarks, said: “Anchored on the values of unity, leadership and professionalism, we are committed to building a better, brighter future for Asian refereeing.

“Unity in the consistency of our decisions, leadership in our approach and thinking, and professionalism in our conduct, both on and off the pitch are what we are aiming for.”

The 31 referees and assistant referees had to go through rigorous practical sessions every morning and a fitness test. There were also classroom video analysis tests to measure the knowledge, dexterity and aptitude of the match officials.  

One of the most important aspects of the course was to update the referees’ knowledge of the latest Laws of the Game, an interactive practical evaluation and report writing sessions were held.