Johor Bahru: Johor Regent, Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim has urged all parties to rally around and give their positive and constructive support to the national football team. Tunku Mahkota Ismail, who owns football club Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), explained that public support was vital as developing the Harimau Malaya squad required time and effort that would allow them to achieve success.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tunku Mahkota Ismail emphasized the importance of collaboration between local and foreign expertise in nurturing the football team. He noted that the sharing of ideas and knowledge among local coaches and international experts is crucial for the progress of the team. Tunku Mahkota Ismail called for patience, support, and space for the team to grow and fulfill their duties effectively.

Tunku Mahkota Ismail was responding to comments made by local football legend Datuk Santokh Singh, who expressed concerns about the national team’s identity and the involvement of local coaches. The Reg
ent addressed these concerns by stating that the focus should be on the dedication and performance of players, regardless of their origins, as long as they possess Malaysian ties and contribute to the team’s success.

The Regent also highlighted the challenges he faced from certain parties who aimed to undermine his efforts to strengthen the national team. He expressed that narratives and sentiments are being used against him, but reaffirmed his commitment to his role in improving the local sports scene. Tunku Mahkota Ismail urged other entities, including the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and JDT, not to be blamed for the withdrawal of several teams from the Super League next season.

Tunku Mahkota Ismail concluded by urging state leaders and stakeholders to focus on developing their own clubs and reiterated his dedication to JDT and the national team’s progress.