Kuala lumpur: Reform and governance are anticipated to take the forefront as Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan and Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar vie for the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president's position at the upcoming Extraordinary Congress for the remainder of the 2025-2029 term.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, national football observer Ahmad Muzakkir Hamid noted that both candidates have their distinct backgrounds and qualifications, which could influence their approach if elected to lead the national governing body. Ab Ghani brings extensive experience in football administration, having served in FAM leadership roles and as head of the Malaysian Football League (MFL). Shahril, on the other hand, offers corporate experience along with his previous involvement in football administration.
Ahmad Muzakkir emphasized that Ab Ghani's long-standing involvement in the football ecosystem could be beneficial in understanding the intricacies of the national governing body's administration, including its relationship with affiliated bodies and stakeholders in domestic football. However, he pointed out that significant challenges await the selected candidate, particularly in rebuilding the confidence of the International Football Federation (FIFA) after issues involving seven heritage players and addressing previously identified governance weaknesses.
The observer highlighted three main priorities for the new administration during their first six months: resolving governance weaknesses, enhancing grassroots development, and improving Malaysia's international football standing. He stressed that change should extend beyond the president's office to include the Executive Committee and the entire FAM administrative structure to ensure the reform agenda is effectively implemented.
National football legend Shahril Arshat added that the new FAM president must ensure continuity in the country's football development plans, ensuring they are not altered with each leadership change. He emphasized the importance of maintaining and improving long-term plans rather than completely overhauling them, to sustain development momentum.
Shahril Arshat also suggested that FAM should focus on increasing the value of the Malaysia League (M-League), addressing financial challenges, enhancing league competitiveness, and ensuring the development league aligns with the need to produce quality players. He noted that the effectiveness of the new administration relies on the cooperation of all congress members, the Executive Committee, and FAM management, emphasizing unity within the leadership structure.
On September 3, FAM announced that MFL president Ab Ghani and Selangor Football Association (FAS) deputy president Shahril would compete directly for the national governing body's president's post. Attention will also be on the contests for Vice-Presidents 1 and 3, as well as Executive Committee members representing state football associations and clubs.