Seeking new challenges: Cklamovski's departure from Harimau Malaya explained

Peter Cklamovski has unexpectedly stepped down as the head coach of the Malaysian national football team, Harimau Malaya, citing a desire to pursue new challenges. The Australian coach officially announced his resignation, marking an early end to his tenure which was seen as building a long-term project for the national squad.

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Today (yesterday) I announce my departure as head coach of Malaysia. I want to express my highest gratitude to all parties involved for the support given and to understand my decision that the time has come for me to accept new challenges.

"Today (yesterday) I announce my departure as head coach of Malaysia. I want to express my highest gratitude to all parties involved for the support given and to understand my decision that the time has come for me to accept new challenges," Cklamovski stated. He emphasized that his efforts during his time with Harimau Malaya were aimed at making the country proud, praising the exceptional commitment shown by the players and coaching staff.

Cklamovski also acknowledged the significant potential within Malaysian football, particularly highlighting the strong support from fans, the talent of the players, and the passion for the sport. "Malaysian football has immense potential. The spirit of the fans, the talent of the players, and the love for this game are things that must always be preserved," he said. He expressed his hope for continued growth in Malaysian football, with decisions guided by what is best for the sport, the players, and the nation's future.

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Malaysian football has immense potential. The spirit of the fans, the talent of the players, and the love for this game are things that must always be preserved.

In a related development, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) announced the mutual termination of the contract for National Teams CEO Rob Friend, effective June 1. The association also confirmed the mutual termination of contracts for Cklamovski and two senior team technical staff, Matthew Smith and Seiya Imazaki, effective June 16. Additionally, the contracts for the U-23 national team head coach Nafuzi Zain and goalkeeper coach Mohd Yazid Mohd Yassin were also terminated by mutual agreement, effective June 15, 2026.

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FAM also wants to inform that the contract of the U-23 national team head coach, Nafuzi Zain, and goalkeeper coach, Mohd Yazid Mohd Yassin, were also terminated by mutual agreement, effective June 15, 2026.