Tengku Muda Pahang confirms he recommended seven heritage players to FAM, now under FIFA investigation for document falsification.
THE Tengku Muda of Pahang, Tengku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ahmad Shah, has confirmed he recommended several heritage players to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), including the seven currently under FIFA investigation.
His Highness stated the recommendation was made with a sincere intention to strengthen the national squad and provide opportunities for Malaysian-blooded talents abroad.
Tengku Abdul Rahman revealed that since the end of 2024, several agents had contacted him to propose players for assessment before he forwarded the information to FAM.
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“Among the players I recommended to FAM are the seven heritage players who are now involved in the case of investigation and suspension by FIFA.”
“For your information, all seven of these players are legitimate Malaysian citizens after being granted citizenship by the Government of Malaysia through a valid and orderly process,” His Highness said in a statement.
He believes the presence of naturalised and heritage players can improve the quality and competitiveness of the national squad.
“I forwarded the suggestions to FAM for a more detailed evaluation to determine whether the players meet the criteria as heritage players.”
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Tengku Abdul Rahman also highlighted his efforts with the Pahang team, which previously naturalised players like Mohamadou Sumareh, Sergio Aguero, and Lee Tuck.
He expressed appreciation for the vision and leadership of the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, in raising the quality of the Harimau Malaya squad.
Last month, FAM and the seven naturalised players were sanctioned by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee for violating Article 22 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
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FIFA informed that FAM had submitted falsified documents to confirm the players’ eligibility for the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers against Vietnam on June 10.
FAM was fined 350,000 Swiss Francs, approximately 1.8 million ringgit, while each player was fined 2,000 Swiss Francs, around 10,560 ringgit, and suspended for 12 months. – Bernama
