Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Hani Taleb Ballan, Chairman of the AFC Referees Committee, is spearheading Qatar’s involvement in the Elite Referees Licensing and Accreditation Program for AFC Referees, which commenced on Monday, November 11, 2024, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Running until November 16, the program aims to certify top lecturers for Asian referees, enhancing the quality and expertise within the sport’s officiating community.   The program covers a wide range of topics, including training elite technical lecturers on advanced teaching methods, evaluating referees' capabilities and performance, and conducting in-depth match analysis to identify strengths and areas for improvement in refereeing. Attendees also participate in rigorous video, law, and English language assessments, while delivering theoretical presentations and hands-on applications with player involvement.   In addition, the Elite Fitness Instructors Licensing Program for Referees, led by Lecturer Khamis Al Kuwari, emphasizes the principles of fitness instruction, training program design, and practical applications. Participants explore fitness instruction methodologies, learn to develop training programs, and present both theoretical and practical exercises. In his opening address, Ballan expressed gratitude to the participants for their vital role in advancing the technical and physical standards of refereeing across Asia. He underscored the importance of their contributions to refining the Asian refereeing system through mentorship and training, bolstering referees’ skills and experience.