Foreign referees for Malaysia Cup final a step backward, says ex-FIFA referee

The decision by the Malaysia Football League (MFL) to employ foreign referees for the upcoming Malaysia Cup final has ignited strong criticism from former FIFA referee Subkhiddin Mohd Salleh. He unequivocally labels this move as a significant step backward for Malaysian football, arguing that it stifles the ambition and spirit of local officiating talent.

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The decision to use foreign referees for the Malaysia Cup final is considered a step backward, killing the spirit, emotion, and ambition of local referees.

Subkhiddin contends that this decision is a mere shortcut taken by the management to evade public scrutiny, rather than addressing the root causes of any perceived officiating issues. He emphasizes that Malaysian referees have endured a season of challenges and criticism, and the final represents a pinnacle they aspire to officiate, just like the competing teams aim to win it.

This reliance on external officials, Subkhiddin argues, exposes fundamental problems in the management of referees. Instead of blaming the referees for any shortcomings, the responsibility lies squarely with those who manage them. The move also casts doubt on the efficacy of the F:30 plan, which was designed to cultivate professional referees. At this stage, Malaysian football should be proud of its own referees gracing the final, not importing them.

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This action of placing foreign referees in the final proves that we have problems in referee management. If there are shortcomings, do not blame the referees, but blame those who manage them.

Drawing parallels with major European leagues like England, Spain, Italy, and Germany, Subkhiddin points out that they do not resort to foreign referees for their domestic finals. This practice, he fears, sends a negative signal to international bodies and crushes the aspirations of young Malaysian referees aiming for global stages like the World Cup. He asserts that Malaysia should not be overly reliant on foreign expertise to the detriment of its own talent, likening it to a colonial mindset that undervalues local capabilities.

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This move also raises questions about the status of the F:30 plan, which aims to produce professional referees. At this stage, we should be proud to see our own referees in the final.

Ultimately, Subkhiddin views this decision not as a sign of strong leadership, but as an act of desperation and political maneuvering. He calls for leaders within the football association to confront issues head-on, to be transparent with the public about any mistakes made by local referees, and to explain situations clearly rather than resorting to importing foreign talent as a quick fix.

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Major leagues around the world like England, Spain, Italy, and Germany never use foreign referees in their domestic matches.