Kuala lumpur: Football Association of Selangor (FAS) deputy president Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar will continue to contribute to the country's football development through his role with FAS and Selangor FC.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, although he lost to Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan in a straight fight for the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president's post at the governing body's Executive Committee election for the remainder of the 2025-2029 term, Shahril said he accepted the outcome with an open mind and would not challenge the decision.

Shahril expressed respect for the affiliates' decision and emphasized his commitment to focusing on his role in domestic football matters. He stated that he would not contest the decision, emphasizing the importance of proper management, transparency, and avoiding past mistakes to elevate the country's football standing.

He reiterated his dedication to football, asserting that he remains with FAS and Selangor FC. Shahril acknowledged the delegates' decision during the election held in conjunction with the Second FAM Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM).

In the election, Malaysian Football League (MFL) president Ab Ghani secured 20 votes, defeating Shahril, who received five votes, for the presidency. Shahril previously held positions as chairman of the Sponsorship and Marketing Committee and manager of the national Under-23 team before relinquishing all positions in FAM in 2024.

The EGM also witnessed a challenge to the eligibility of FAM Election Committee chairman Prof Datuk Dr Abdullah Mohamad Said, following a letter of objection submitted by FAS. Asian Football Confederation (AFC) secretary-general Datuk Seri Windsor Paul John, who chaired the meeting, affirmed that the EGM and election process could proceed, with the option to lodge an appeal regarding any objections to the Election Committee chairman's appointment.

The election was conducted to reconstitute the FAM Executive Committee for the 2025-2029 term following the collective resignation of the entire previous committee in January. This decision was made after FAM encountered an issue involving documents concerning seven Harimau Malaya players, prompting FIFA to take action against the national governing body and the players involved.