Due to a fraud scandal, FAM must temporarily halt the organization of an important event.

The citizenship fraud scandal has caused the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to spend more time handling the issue than initially expected.

According to Acting FAM President, Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi, holding the annual general meeting is a mandatory duty for the national football governing body. However, the election congress only occurs every four years. At present, FAM has yet to set a specific date for the congress because it needs to prioritize thoroughly resolving the legal issues currently existing with FIFA.

FAM leadership confirmed that only after the complications related to FIFA are clearly resolved can the board develop a long-term plan, including the timeline for organizing the congress and making key decisions for the future. This highlights the complexity and widespread impact of the case on the entire Malaysian football system.

Previously, domestic media, especially Kosmo newspaper, repeatedly mentioned that FAM should consider 2026 as a pivotal milestone for a comprehensive restructuring. After a series of scandals and controversies lasting two years, FAM’s reputation has been severely damaged, not only among local fans but also internationally.

The crisis began with an anonymous letter scandal that shocked in April 2024, before escalating into a major issue directly involving FIFA in September last year. These developments caused Malaysian football to frequently appear in the press with negative coverage, sparking strong criticism from the public and experts alike.

Many observers believe that to regain trust, FAM needs to take more decisive actions. Datuk Dr. Pekan Ramli, a well-known sports expert, has proposed that the entire Executive Committee (Exco) should resign to pave the way for new elections at the upcoming congress. According to him, only systemic and personnel changes can help Malaysian football break free from the ongoing crisis cycle.

Notably, Acting President Mohd Yusoff Mahadi has also taken what is seen as a firm step by filing a police report, following the recommendations of the Independent Investigation Committee (IIC). This committee, led by former Chief Justice Tun Md Raus Sharif, just completed its investigation report last week. This move shows FAM’s effort to demonstrate transparency and accountability during the crisis management process.