FAM speaks out after FIFA's severe sanction against Malaysia

Following the harsh penalty from FIFA, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) officially responded, affirming respect for the decision, accepting the consequences, and viewing it as a significant lesson for the country's football.

After FIFA decided to deduct points and annul the results of three international friendly matches due to the use of ineligible players, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) officially responded, admitting they could do nothing but respect and accept the punishment.

According to the latest update from FIFA, Malaysia lost 22 points, dropping from 116th to 121st in the world rankings, marking their lowest position in three years. They also fell out of the top 120 national teams and are now only one rank above Indonesia (122nd).

Acting Vice President of FAM, Datuk Wira Mohd Yusoff Mahadi, shared at a press conference that the association fully respects FIFA's regulations and will not appeal the annulled match results, instead focusing on handling the case at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Mr. Yusoff stated: “This is a clear FIFA regulation applied to all countries. When a team fields an ineligible player, the results must be annulled. We understand and respect this decision. Although disappointed, the important thing now is to look forward. FAM will focus on resolving the matter at CAS and strive to restore the image of Malaysian football.”

The FAM leader also emphasized that the association will learn a profound lesson, strengthen player registration management, and work more closely with FIFA and AFC to prevent similar violations from happening again.

“This is a costly lesson for Malaysian football. We must acknowledge the mistakes but also stand up to correct them. FAM will not evade responsibility,” Mr. Yusoff affirmed.

This incident is seen as a heavy blow to the efforts of reform and rebuilding a new image for Malaysian football. Just weeks earlier, FIFA had also imposed a 12-month ban on seven naturalized players due to document fraud, a matter that sparked public outrage and demands from fans for FAM to be more transparent and professional in management.

With only 1,145.89 points, Malaysia is going through its toughest period in years, but Mr. Yusoff assured: “We will not collapse because of this mistake. Malaysian football will come back stronger, cleaner, and more professional.”