FAM election battle begins

The contest for control of Malaysia’s football association is taking shape, with the final candidate list for 11 positions expected to be announced. The election congress will take place on Sept. 17, and the presidential race is set to draw the most attention.

Three figures are competing for the top post: FAM honorary president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin, Malaysia Football League president Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan and Selangor Football Association deputy president Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar.

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We do not want a predetermined plot, and we do not want the new president to resign within a year because of obstacles or an inability to carry the mandate of affiliates, the people and fans.

Sports observer Datuk Dr. Pekan Ramli said stakeholders want a genuine and transparent contest, not an election arranged behind the scenes. He said the next president must have the will to transform FAM and carry the mandate of affiliated members, the public and supporters.

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We are not looking for passengers because they are not needed at FAM. Even if there are 15 or 20 leaders, if they are all followers, it is useless.

“We do not want a predetermined plot, and we do not want the new president to resign within a year because of obstacles or an inability to carry the mandate of affiliates, the people and fans,” Pekan said. He also warned against electing leaders who become passive once they take office, saying FAM did not need “passengers” or a large group of followers.

Media reports previously listed 17 incumbents and 11 newcomers as nominees, although FAM’s final list was expected to settle the numbers. Football observer Associate Professor Dr. Zulakbal Abd Karim said he was encouraged by the interest in the contest, while stressing that affiliates should keep their objectives in mind before voting.

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The competition is intense when many individuals offer themselves for election. In the end, we want to see something good, but this development is a good start for future elections.