'Malaysia's chances of winning this case are very slim'

Expert Datuk Pekan Ramli recommends that FAM should accept FIFA’s decision regarding the naturalization of 7 players, considering an appeal to CAS as futile and expensive.

The decision by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) remains controversial, with many opinions labeling it a “pointless and costly” move. Among them, football expert Datuk Pekan Ramli is the most vocal, insisting that FAM should “face the truth” instead of prolonging the issue.

Previously, FIFA upheld the heavy sanctions against FAM and seven players involved in the fake naturalization document scandal. According to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee's ruling, FAM was fined 350,000 Swiss francs, while the 7 players—Gabriel Palmero, Facundo Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Joao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal, and Hector Hevel—were each fined 2,000 Swiss francs and banned from all football activities for 12 months.

Acting FAM President Datuk Yusoff Mahadi said the association was “surprised” by the ruling and is preparing documents to appeal to CAS, calling it “a major battle to protect Malaysian football’s honor.” However, expert Datuk Pekan Ramli believes this move is unrealistic.

“We have lost 2-0 to FIFA in this case. They have full evidence. What surprises me is that FAM still hasn’t accepted that they violated the regulations,” he said.

According to Pekan, continuing the appeal will only damage FAM’s reputation further and waste resources unnecessarily, as the chance of success is almost zero.

“If a poll were conducted, I believe the majority would consider the appeal a waste. Malaysia’s chances of winning at CAS are very low”, he concluded.

The veteran expert also noted that FAM is making a mistake by dragging out the matter instead of focusing on damage control and internal reform.

“It seems like we’re trying to blame others. There’s no need for more drama. Malaysian football needs to move forward, not get stuck in old controversies,” he emphasized.

Although acknowledging that FAM may want to show solidarity with the 7 banned players, Pekan Ramli insists that truth and accountability must come first.

“FAM might want to prove they are not abandoning the players, but the purpose doesn’t justify the wrong actions. It’s time to admit mistakes and make amends,” he stated.

Additionally, Pekan called on FAM’s independent investigation committee to publicly disclose the results and be transparent about those responsible for the incident.

“Who initiated this project? Were the agents truly reckless enough to forge documents? FAM needs to clarify. Otherwise, fans’ trust will continue to erode.”

The case continues to attract significant public attention in Malaysia. Despite FAM’s firm pursuit of the appeal, many experts believe the best way to protect Malaysian football’s image now is to face reality and reform, rather than keep disputing with FIFA.