KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 15 (Bernama) -- The Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Ibni Sultan Sharafuddin Shah stressed that he is not interested in filling the currently vacant position of Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president.
Speaking after the launch of the book Gemilang: Sejarah Perjalanan Bolasepak Selangor (Glory: The History of Selangor Football), His Highness emphasised that his interest remains solely with the Selangor Football Association (FAS) and that he intends to stay focused on his commitment to the team.
"Oh no, I am not interested (in the FAM Presidency). My interest is with FAS, and there is much we want to achieve at this time," His Highness stated here today.
Furthermore, His Highness pledged his support for any decisions that could elevate the standards of the sport.
"I will support and give my best to do what I must to support Malaysian football. As I said, my focus is on FAS," he added.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Kelantan The Real Warriors (KTRW), Datul Mohd Irwan Rizal, identified three individuals as the best candidates to lead FAM at this juncture.
The three individuals mentioned were: The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah; The Regent of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim and the Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah.
He noted that these three members of the royalty possess an unique aura and influence, not only within the country but also on the global stage.
Tengku Amir said Selangor are in the process of implementing a comprehensive restructuring to empower the organisation and grassroots development, spanning from the school and youth levels up to the senior team.
As the Chairman of Selangor FC, His Highness stated that the move aims to ensure the state's football system functions holistically and effectively, adding that every decision made is for the advancement of football and not for external interests.
"I believe that football today is not just about what happens on the pitch; it is about building a solid institution that shapes the community and an association that strengthens the emotional bond between the club and its supporters.
"In fulfilling this vision and mission, a professional approach will continue to be prioritised in management," he said.
The Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Shah graced the event with his presence.
Additionally, Tengku Amir Shah noted that football must be managed in a modern, sustainable, and competitive manner without neglecting tradition and identity.
Regarding the Gemilang book - which chronicles the history of Selangor football and the timeline of the Red Giants squad - His Highness announced that it will be sold for RM200 and all proceeds from the sales will be fully channeled into a welfare fund for Selangor veteran players.
--BERNAMA