KUCHING: Sarawak Football Association’s President, Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman has called for capable and realistic leadership to guide the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) through its current challenges.
He said it is not the time for trial-and-error, but for experienced leaders who can ensure continuity, stability and long-term development of Malaysian football.
“The focus must be on realistic leadership that can address current challenges, strengthen administration, and prepare the association for the future,” he told a press conference here today (Feb 10).
Fazzrudin stressed that strong leadership is essential to implement reforms, rebuild trust with stakeholders including FIFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the government, and mentor emerging figures within the association.
“We need leaders who already have experience and networks with FIFA, AFC, and the government – people who can implement a clear transition plan rather than leaving the association to trial-and-error,” he said.
He added that leadership should prioritise stability and the ability to guide new leaders responsibly, rather than popularity alone.
“A strong FAM leadership is essential not only to solve current problems but also to ensure the growth of football in Sarawak and across the country,” he noted.
The call came following a major shake-up at FAM, where the entire 2025–2029 Executive Committee resigned following a scandal involving falsified documents for seven naturalised players, resulting in a 12-month FIFA suspension for the players and a 350,000 Swiss franc fine.
FAM’s Secretary-General, Datuk Noor Azman Rahman, and the treasurer is currently overseeing daily operations on an interim basis.
