Post by : Maya Rahman

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia confirmed a commitment to a thorough investigation into allegations of document forgery that resulted in FIFA suspending seven naturalised players from the national football team.

This week, FIFA announced they will initiate a formal examination of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). Following the rejection of FAM's appeal concerning player suspensions, FIFA communicated with authorities in five nations regarding possible criminal actions.

Last month, FAM took the step of suspending its secretary-general and setting up an independent committee to delve into the situation. They also intend to escalate the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Prime Minister Anwar underscored the need for transparency but maintained that FAM must have the opportunity to defend itself. He stated the government would not make unilateral decisions based solely on FIFA's investigation findings. “Proceed with the investigation. That’s the directive. However, the due process must continue,” he remarked.

The footballers—Facundo Garces, Gabriel Arrocha, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Joao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal, and Hector Hevel—received a 12-month suspension in September after FIFA found discrepancies arising from the falsified documents used for their participation in an Asian Cup qualifier against Vietnam.

This revelation sparked widespread outrage in Malaysia, prompting fans and legislators to demand accountability for FAM officials and agencies involved in citizenship documentation.

Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh informed parliament that the ministry cannot remove FAM officials, as governmental interference could lead to FIFA suspending Malaysian football. Such measures could adversely impact not just the senior team but also youth and women's squads.

“I recognize the public’s frustration, yet I must adhere to the procedures and findings presented by FIFA regarding the seven players,” said Yeoh. The ministry is considering withholding further funding for FAM until a thorough investigation, headed by a highly regarded former Malaysian judge, is concluded.

According to FIFA’s appeals committee report, while the players indicated that their grandparents were born in Malaysia, the birth certificates encountered significant inconsistencies compared to those submitted by FAM.

Both the Prime Minister and FAM have committed to a full and transparent investigation, aiming to ensure responsibility and uphold the integrity of Malaysian football.

#Sports News