Experts want AFC to take special action with the Football Association of Malaysia

Malaysian experts urge the AFC to supervise the FAM election congress to guarantee transparency, fairness, and to avoid risks of manipulation in the Malaysian football association.

According to Malaysian media, Datuk Dr. Pekan Ramli, a veteran football critic and commentator, believes that AFC’s presence is essential to ensure the election process for FAM’s new leadership is fair, transparent, and follows proper procedures. This expert emphasized that the current situation requires stricter oversight mechanisms to prevent undesirable consequences.

Mr. Pekan Ramli commented: “I believe independent parties should act as observers during the election, especially as FAM is currently facing many sensitive issues. Without external supervision, many negative incidents could occur, leading to accusations and a poor public perception.”

In addition to the AFC, Pekan Ramli also proposed that the Malaysian Sports Commissioner’s Office (SCO) directly participate in the monitoring process. According to him, if FAM genuinely wants to improve its image and regain public trust, the federation should proactively invite relevant agencies to participate rather than waiting for external recommendations.

This expert also expressed concerns about the transparency of candidate nominations, noting past shortcomings have raised public doubts about the possibility of "prearranged scenarios." He stressed that the entire process must be conducted according to regulations, from the opening of nominations, eligibility criteria, to the way applications are received and handled.

“The procedure must be properly carried out from the start. If even basic issues are not well managed, then FIFA’s presence on election day won’t have real significance, as old problems will continue to reoccur,” Pekan Ramli said.

Previously, some FAM member units were reportedly preparing to send letters requesting AFC to closely monitor the upcoming Executive Committee election congress, scheduled in the coming weeks. According to Malaysian media, this move is seen as necessary to ensure the election process is fair, orderly, and not manipulated by any interest groups.