Pitch-Side First Respondent (PFR) Level 1 Certification Overview

PITCH-SIDE FIRST RESPONDENT (PFR)

Level 1 Certification

Pitch-Side First Respondent (PFR) Level 1 Certification

The Pitch-Side First Respondent (PFR) Level 1 Certification, previously known as Pitch Side Care in Football, is a joint collaboration between UKM Specialist Centre (UKMSC) and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). It is led by Assoc Prof Dato’ Dr Badrul Akmal Hisham, Medical Director of UKMSC and Managing Director of KL Orthosports. In addition, he serves on the FAM Medical & Sports Science Committee.

This programme was developed in Malaysia to improve player safety and medical readiness in football. Therefore, it plays an important role in raising national medical standards on the pitch.

Raising Medical Standards in Malaysian Football

The PFR Level 1 Certification ensures that football teams have trained first responders present during matches and training. This applies to professional, amateur, club, academy, and school teams.

As a result, teams can respond faster when injuries or medical emergencies occur. Moreover, early action helps reduce the risk of serious complications.

Practical, Football-Specific Training

Unlike general first aid courses, this certification focuses on football-specific situations. Participants learn how to recognise emergencies, manage acute injuries, and provide immediate care. Meanwhile, they also learn how to work effectively while awaiting advanced medical support.

Consequently, participants gain practical skills that apply directly to real match scenarios.

Strengthening Player Welfare and Duty of Care

By training pitch-side personnel, the PFR Level 1 Certification improves decision-making in critical moments. Furthermore, it supports safer return-to-play decisions.

Ultimately, this programme strengthens the culture of player welfare, duty of care, and safety across Malaysian football.