PETALING JAYA: Malaysian football needs a figure with real influence at the top and Datuk Yusoff Mahadi believes Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim fits that profile better than anyone else.
Tunku Ismail was once the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president.
"Tunku Ismail is seen as a consistent figure who is relatively immune to political and corporate influence," said Yusoff, the former acting president of the FAM.
He said Johor Crown Prince’s involvement in football through his club Johor Darul Ta’zim's (JDT) regardless of economic or external pressures was also a point to consider.
"At any time, even in uncertain economic conditions, he remains committed and has never left the football scene."
Talks of candidates are heating up with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) suggesting the body to hold their congress by June.
Yusoff warned that modern football leadership demands more than ambition, highlighting the intense financial pressures and political complexities linked with the FAM presidency.
"We are not a Western country with a commercial ecosystem supported by industries like gambling and alcohol that heavily fund football. The reality is that we need individuals who are truly influential and capable of opening up financial opportunities and wide networks," he said.
"In the era of social media and AI, criticism and accusations from netizens are the new norm.
"Whoever is chosen must have strong mental resilience, not easily shaken, and not ‘crack’ under continuous pressure."
Even if Tunku Ismail ultimately declines the role, Yusoff insisted his influence should still shape the decision.
"If Tunku Mahkota Ismail does not want the position, then the FAM president should be chosen from among individuals who have his trust and blessing," he added.
