"The AFC recognises that clubs are at the centre of football development in Asia and unless the national leagues and clubs show improvement, Asian football can never be developed," he said.
While some countries like Japan and South Korea have built successful domestic leagues, most countries in Asia are still in their infancy.
"Asian clubs need to change from the current amateur to professional status and the time has come to show professionalism in the premier club tournaments of Asia," he added.
"I am confident that the clubs will develop and challenge the best in the world."
FIFA president Sepp Blatter has advised Asian clubs to adopt a similar commercial and professional approach to their European counterparts if they want to succeed.
The AFC Champions League gets under way on March 8.
