PETALING JAYA: The Tengku Muda of Pahang, Tengku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ahmad Shah, has revealed that he was the one who recommended several of the seven heritage players currently suspended by FIFA to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM).
Tengku Abdul Rahman, who is also the owner of Sri Pahang FC, said Friday (Oct 24) he was inspired to contribute to the development of Malaysian football, much like the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail.
The Pahang royal said he wanted to use his experience in the sport, particularly in matters involving the naturalisation of potential players and identifying heritage players who could represent the national team.
His Highness said his efforts began towards the end of last year, during which he submitted the names of several players to FAM for consideration.
However, Tengku Abdul Rahman did not disclose the names of the players he recommended.
"Throughout my involvement in football, many agents have met and introduced their players to me.
"Since the end of 2024, several agents have approached me to propose players for assessment.
"I have forwarded these recommendations to FAM for a detailed evaluation to determine whether the players meet the criteria as heritage players and could be considered for the national squad.
"Among the players I have recommended to FAM are seven heritage players who are now involved in the ongoing FIFA investigation and suspension case.
"For the record, all seven are legitimate Malaysian citizens who were granted citizenship by the Malaysian government through proper and lawful procedures in accordance with national regulations," Tengku Abdul Rahman said in a statement.
