Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Malaysia aspires to become a World Cup host in the future.
He also hopes Harimau Malaya will qualify for the tournament and represent Southeast Asia when that day comes.
Hopes Malaysia will host and compete
Zahid shared the aspiration while attending a giant-screen viewing of the 2026 World Cup final between defending champions Argentina and Spain at Bangi Square 2 early Monday morning (July 20).
He added that he hoped Malaysia would also be among the participating teams representing Southeast Asia by then.
However, no details regarding an official hosting bid or proposed year were announced.
Harimau Malaya rises to 136th
His remarks came as Harimau Malaya moved up two places in the latest world rankings.
The national team now sits in 136th place, having previously ranked 138th.
Hundreds of football fans gathered at the venue to watch the final on a giant screen.
