KLFA President backs TMJ as top choice to lead FAM, restore credibility after FIFA scandal, with Tan Sri Hamidin as an alternative.
AS the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) seeks to rebuild its tattered reputation, Kuala Lumpur Football Association (KLFA) President Syed Yazid Syed Omar has identified Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim as the premier choice to lead the national body.
According to Harian Metro, Syed Yazid believes the leadership and unwavering commitment demonstrated by the Regent of Johor, who is also known as TMJ in transforming Johor Darul Ta’zim FC (JDT) into a regional powerhouse prove his capability to restore FAM’s credibility.
“Personally, I believe the Regent of Johor is the most qualified candidate. I feel that he is capable of putting FAM back on the right track,” he was quoted as saying.
Syed Yazid also defended TMJ against allegations linking him to the recent document falsification scandal involving seven players, emphasising that the Johor Regent should not be held accountable for the administrative lapse.
“We cannot blame Tunku Mahkota Ismail over that issue. We need to understand the full story, but in my view, it is not his fault,” he added.
While naming his primary choice, Syed Yazid also identified Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin as a relevant alternative for the presidency, citing his extensive international experience with FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
“If not Tunku Mahkota Ismail, I think Tan Sri Hamidin is also a worthy candidate because of his experience and international network,” he said.
The FAM presidency and executive committee positions have remained vacant following a mass resignation in January.
The exodus was triggered by a FIFA investigation into the submission of falsified documents to verify the eligibility of seven naturalised players ahead of a 2027 Asian Cup qualifier against Vietnam.
The world governing body subsequently imposed a fine of 350,000 Swiss francs on FAM and 2,000 Swiss francs(approximately RM10,560) on each involved player.
In December 2025, FAM and the players filed appeals with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), arguing a lack of intent or negligence. Last month, CAS partially upheld the players’ appeal, ruling that their 12-month ban would apply only to official matches rather than all football-related activities.
However, FAM’s appeal against the substantial FIFA fine was dismissed, with the panel deeming the penalty “justified and proportionate.”
FAM is currently undergoing a rigorous restructuring process under AFC supervision.
Elections for a new leadership tier are expected to commence only once all audit processes have been fully concluded.
The Sun Malaysia
