No Worries! So I found a few decent answers from other forum, if anyone randomly stumbles onto this topic in 4 years time of something, it might help a random person๐
Apart from adding a little noise insulation & presentation (Both primary reasons) It does not serve any purpose.
Benefits & Risks..
Benefits: Space for larger intake, better heat dissipation for coil packs & valve cover, more noise (if that's your thing) & Cheaper than replacement if the foam backing is breaking down (common issue) Makes service/inspection work faster.
Risks:Minimal Noise increase(mostly direct injection idle noise at a standstill), Does increase the probability of breaking a sensor (cam sensor) if your silly enough to go ham fisted leaning on components but improbable unless your clumsy.
Based on 50,000 miles without one.