Merit should guide FAM leadership selection

Malaysian Football Association (FAM) affiliates are being urged to prioritize merit, experience, and capability when selecting leaders for the upcoming election on September 17. The call comes from Datuk Mohd Hisamudin Yahaya, a former FAM Executive Committee member, who emphasized that rational choices should guide the selection process.

"For me, the affiliates need to look at the merit of each candidate," Hisamudin stated. "Don't just dismiss someone because they are a familiar face. Likewise, new faces must be evaluated based on their ability and experience."

He stressed that affiliates should not be swayed by a candidate's popularity or status but should instead assess the tangible contributions they can offer to FAM. Hisamudin highlighted that experienced candidates, even if they have served before, remain valuable assets and should not be overlooked simply due to their past involvement.

The election, which will fill 11 positions for the 2025-2029 term, has seen 31 candidates successfully pass the qualification screening. The competition includes one presidential post, three vice-presidential roles, and seven executive committee seats. Hisamudin views the competition between established and new candidates as a positive development, providing affiliates with a clear basis for comparison before deciding who is truly fit to lead FAM.

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For me, the affiliates need to look at the merit of each candidate. Don't just dismiss someone because they are a familiar face. Likewise, new faces must be evaluated based on their ability and experience.