The NSC said Jefri’s name and photograph were misused by irresponsible parties to falsely link him to the programme.

It said neither it nor Jefri had any connection, involvement, or association with the programme or related activities.

“The NSC has never appointed, authorised, or recognised any individual or group to use its name, identity, or image to collect payments for any sports activity.

“The council views this misuse seriously, and a police report has been lodged to enable a thorough investigation.

“The NSC will not hesitate to take firm action, including legal proceedings, against any party found to be involved in such fraudulent activities to protect its interests and reputation,” it said in a statement.

The NSC advised the public to verify the authenticity of information related to the agency through its official channels, and to refrain from making payments to parties claiming to represent the council without proper verification.

It also urged victims of such scams to immediately lodge a police report and contact their financial institutions for further action.

“The NSC will continue to take proactive measures to curb such activities and safeguard public interest as well as the organisation’s reputation,” it added.