Megat D Shahriman Urges FAM Affiliates To Back Reform

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin has urged affiliates of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to be bold in making changes at the governing body’s election congress for the sake of the future of national football.

The Paralympic Council Malaysia (PCM) president said FAM requires comprehensive reform to restore the confidence of fans, players and stakeholders in the local football industry.

He said that while some affiliates may still need more time to assess the reform agenda in its entirety, a strategic partner approach with specific clauses could be considered as a more structured and inclusive alternative.

“To the affiliates, ask yourselves what you really want. If you have votes and rights but are unable to effect change and make an impact, then seek a strategic partner who can truly bring about reform. Listen to their plans; I don’t think that is difficult.

“I hope those who can vote and have the power can work with those who can bring change and elevate the aspirations of those who have not been carried forward before,” he told Bernama.

Megat D Shahriman said the strategic partner approach would allow improvements to be implemented in stages and consistently, while ensuring that the leadership elected continues to be guided by the mandate and trust of the affiliates.

He stressed that his decision to offer himself as a candidate for the FAM presidency was not driven by a desire to pursue position or power, but because he believes he can contribute to the changes needed within FAM.

“I respect the democratic process in FAM and the right of every affiliate to make their choice.

“What drives me is the confidence that, with the experience and commitment I have, I can contribute towards improving and strengthening FAM’s governance if given the mandate,” he said.

Last Monday, Megat D Shahriman once again expressed interest in contesting the FAM president’s post following the mass resignation of FAM’s Executive Committee (Exco) members at the end of last month.

The International Federation of Cerebral Palsy Football (IFCPF) board member had previously voiced his intention to contest the FAM presidency at last year’s election congress, but withdrew due to time constraints.

Under the FAM Statutes, a presidential candidate must obtain at least six nominations from affiliates to qualify to contest.

Last month, all FAM Exco members for the 2025-2029 term resigned collectively and voluntarily with immediate effect as a principled and prudent step following a crisis, to safeguard FAM’s integrity and prioritise organisational responsibility over personal interests. 

The FAM crisis began in September last year after FIFA confirmed that FAM and seven players — Gabriel Felipe Arrocha, Facundo Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Manchuca, Jodo Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal and Hector Hevel — were found to have violated Article 22 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC).

The date for the FAM Election Congress has yet to be finalised, but it is expected to be held after the assessment process being carried out by the Asian Football Confederation is fully completed.

-- BERNAMA