Malaysian illegal naturalized players could face up to 10 years in prison

The controversy surrounding seven illegally naturalized Malaysian players is intensifying, as the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) cautions that the individuals implicated may encounter severe imprisonment.

According to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), those identified as forging documents in this case could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, and may also face fines if convicted.

Speaking to the media, Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa, Director of the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (JSJK) under PDRM, stated that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code, focusing on fraud and document forgery. If proven guilty, the punishment could be from a minimum of 1 year up to a maximum of 10 years, along with additional penalties such as caning and fines.

Notably, the investigation was launched after police received 45 reports related to the matter. Among these was a report submitted by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). According to descriptions, FAM’s police report was part of a series of actions responding to recommendations from the IIC (an independent investigative committee/group as referred to by Malaysian media) concerning suspicions of forged documents for the seven players.

Amid widespread controversy, Mr. Rusdi emphasized an important point: the nationality granted to these seven players was processed through proper procedures and in accordance with the law. In other words, the authorities are distinguishing between the citizenship granting process and the document forgery allegations, which are the main focus of the investigation.

Mr. Rusdi also revealed that two individuals have been identified as involved in the document forgery. However, he declined to disclose their identities and advised the public not to speculate until the authorities reach a final conclusion.

This incident further escalates the severity of FAM's illegal naturalization scandal. In recent days, several senior officials of the Football Association of Malaysia have resigned in an effort to protect the association from suspension. However, the AFC warns that this does not change the precarious situation of Malaysian football.

According to AFC Secretary General Windsor John, FAM faces two options: either conduct an internal cleanup or face the possibility of FIFA intervention by appointing a Normalization Committee to take control.