Doing what’s needed: Football Association of Malaysia acting president Datuk Yusoff Mahadi (left) and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) general secretary Datuk Seri Windsor Paul at the exco meeting yesterday. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Outgoing Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) acting president Datuk Yusoff Mahadi has dismissed talk of discontent among their executive committee (exco) members over the collective decision to resign.
While acknowledging that there were initial concerns, particularly among those who felt they were not involved in the mixed heritage controversy, Yusoff said the committee ultimately agreed to step down in the best interests of Malaysian football.
“Although some members initially held differing views, over time they came to understand why this course of action was necessary and eventually agreed to it,” said Yusoff.
“We should not dwell on past disagreements. This is not about who agreed or disagreed. At the beginning, some felt they did not have enough information to make an informed decision.
“However, after a full explanation and a series of discussions, the decision was openly accepted by everyone. The exco have taken joint responsibility, which reflects our unity.”
FAM confirmed yesterday that all exco members had resigned with immediate effect.
Speaking after a special meeting, Yusoff said the move was aimed at safeguarding the association’s integrity and reputation, while minimising the risk of further fallout for Malaysian football.
He added that restoring public trust and support was a key consideration behind the decision.
The mass resignation is expected to allow investigations and internal processes to proceed without interference, while also paving the way for new measures and reforms to be implemented smoothly.
When asked whether former exco members would contest positions at the upcoming FAM congress, Yusoff said it was too early to speculate.
“There has been no immediate reaction or confirmation regarding contesting again,” he said. “The current focus is on the reforms and improvements proposed by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for FAM. Most stakeholders want to see these weaknesses addressed and are prioritising genuine reform over election matters.”
Meanwhile, FAM secretary-general Datuk Noor Azman Rahman said the association are fully prepared for the AFC to conduct a comprehensive review of the national body.
“We are ready, and we invite the AFC to thoroughly assess us,” said Azman.
“We will open up as much as possible and allow them to review every aspect of our structure.
“The secretariat is ready to work closely with the AFC and provide whatever they need. We will cooperate fully and determine which systems are best moving forward.’’
