FAM confirms that CAS has rejected the appeal, leaving open the possibility of further legal action.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed this afternoon, March 6, that it has received the binding decision issued by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding the appeal filed by FAM and seven naturalized players.

FAM's appeal was dismissed. Meanwhile, the players' appeal was partially accepted, with their penalties adjusted. However, they remain suspended from playing for another eight months.

"The full reasoning for the verdict has not yet been published, and any further commentary on the content and basis of this decision will be provided after FAM has studied the full details of the ruling.

FAM respects the authority of CAS but believes the imposed penalty appears disproportionate, especially when compared to sanctions in similar previous cases adjudicated by CAS. FAM will further evaluate this matter upon receiving the full decision.

Throughout the proceedings, FAM has accepted responsibility for the lapses in oversight. Investigations by Malaysian government agencies as well as FIFA are still ongoing. FAM will continue to cooperate fully with all relevant authorities.

This decision is deeply disappointing, especially for the players. They were not involved in the administrative management process and had no knowledge of the related procedural issues.

These players are Malaysian citizens who were granted nationality in accordance with Malaysian legal provisions.

FAM also expressed gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support throughout this difficult period.

The national team remains steadfast in its objectives and will continue to strive wholeheartedly for Malaysian football," stated the official announcement from the Football Association of Malaysia posted on its official fan page.

FAM is currently awaiting a decision from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) following the CAS ruling a day earlier.

In an interview with The Star, the Secretary General of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), Datuk Seri Windsor Paul, stated: "Our priority is to resolve this matter as swiftly and effectively as possible. However, we must ensure all established timelines are strictly adhered to.

There is a clear process that must be followed. After our committee makes a decision, FAM still retains the right to appeal.

We do not assume they will accept the initial outcome; they have the right to pursue the matter to a higher level, including returning to CAS if deemed necessary."