MALAYSIA’s political and football leaders have united in defence of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) after FIFA handed down heavy sanctions over the use of seven naturalised players.
Football legend and FAM vice president Datuk Dollah Salleh is the latest to question the timing of FIFA’s action, pointing out that the governing body had cleared five players on June 10, the same day Malaysia defeated Vietnam 4-0 in an Asian qualifier at Bukit Jalil.
“Clearances were already given earlier, so why now?” he said, expressing confidence that the matter would be resolved positively.
FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee fined FAM CHF350,000 (RM1.9 mil) and imposed year-long bans on players Facundo Garces, Imanol Machuca, Jon Irazabal, Hector Hevel, Gabriel Palmero, Joao Figueiredo and Rodrigo Holgado. Each player also faces a CHF2,000 fine.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail defended the naturalisation process, stressing it complies strictly with Article 19(1) of the Federal Constitution and involves thorough vetting.
Former sports minister Khairy Jamaluddin urged Malaysians to back FAM’s appeal, warning of a bigger agenda against Malaysia.
His statement drew support from Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, amplifying national resolve to challenge FIFA’s ruling. — Focus Malaysia
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