THE Youth and Sports Ministry will determine its next steps after FIFA announces the official result of the Football Association of Malaysia’s appeal regarding seven heritage players’ eligibility tomorrow.
Minister Hannah Yeoh stated the ministry will work with the national governing body and Sports Commissioner to identify necessary measures for improving Malaysia’s football governance and structure.
She emphasised waiting for FIFA’s decision before taking action while acknowledging the broader national team beyond these seven players.
Yeoh highlighted the importance of good leadership and administration for all footballers relying on the sport’s continued growth.
She specifically mentioned athletes like Faisal Halim and Arif Aiman Hanapi whose careers depend on sustained support.
The minister questioned the fairness of giving up on these players whose talents remain promising.
Yeoh made these comments after surveying upgrade works at Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz Sports Complex for the Malaysian Sepak Takraw Academy development.
FIFA previously fined FAM 350,000 Swiss francs (approximately 1.8 million ringgit) and suspended the seven players for twelve months from all football activities.
The world governing body identified irregularities in the players’ original registration documents according to its investigation.
An official FIFA report dated October 6 2025 titled Notification of the Grounds of the Decision detailed the punishment.
The sanctions resulted from violations of Article 22 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code concerning document falsification. – Bernama
