Expert speaks out on the situation at the Football Association of Malaysia

The ex-manager of Malaysia's national team opines that FAM is facing a serious crisis, necessitating a strong restructuring of the leadership and the firm dismissal of longstanding members.

Malaysian football is said to be entering a turbulent phase as the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) is considered to be in a difficult state and urgently needs a major reform at the top leadership level. This view was expressed by Datuk Kamarul Ariffin Mohd Shahar, former manager of the Malaysian national team and a domestic football observer, as FAM prepares for the election of a new executive board.

According to Mr. Kamarul Ariffin, FAM must firmly close the door on the “old faces” or individuals who have repeatedly held positions in the Executive Committee but failed to make significant contributions. He emphasized that the current time is no longer suitable for outdated thinking or merely formal management styles.

“If someone only participates to hold a title, receive allowances, and attend meetings, then that is unnecessary. FAM is currently facing extremely serious challenges,” Mr. Kamarul frankly shared.

Currently, FAM is undergoing a management restructuring process with direct support from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), following the collective resignation of all Executive Committee members last week.

The AFC Secretary-General, Datuk Seri Windsor Paul John, said that an AFC expert team will need at least three months to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of FAM’s management system. Only after this process is completed can FAM hold a congress to elect a new leadership board.

According to Mr. Kamarul Ariffin, the current crisis demands leaders with true capability, who dare to make tough decisions and possess the courage to drive fundamental changes: “FAM needs individuals willing to work seriously, with dedication and vision, not those who just want to keep their positions without making meaningful contributions,” he emphasized.