Top Malaysian official speaks out after FIFA's severe penalty

Malaysia's Minister of Youth and Sports calls on the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to focus on appealing to FIFA.

As previously reported, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee has just issued sanctions against the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and seven players for violating Article 22 of FIFA's Disciplinary Code concerning the forgery and falsification of player registration documents.

According to FIFA's announcement, the Malaysian Football Association submitted eligibility verification documents to FIFA along with altered papers to register seven players: Gabriel Felipe Arrocha, Facundo Tomás Garcés, Rodrigo Julián Holgado, Imanol Javier Machuca, João Vitor Brandão Figueiredo, Jon Irazábal Iraurgui, and Hector Alejandro Hevel Serrano. These players participated in the match between Malaysia and Vietnam during the third round of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers held on June 10, 2025, at Bukit Jalil Stadium.

Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh has called on the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to prioritize the appeal process to FIFA following the global body's sanctions against seven naturalized Malaysian national players:

"FAM's current priority is to complete the legal and international appeal process with FIFA until it is fully resolved. All parties must ensure this process is conducted with absolute integrity and transparency to protect Malaysia's reputation.

Like thousands of Malaysian national team supporters, I am deeply saddened and frustrated by FIFA's decision. Let's not rush to judgment; let the appeal process conclude, and then we will address the matter. I remain committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of all Malaysian athletes, whether your name is Azizulhasni Awang, Pearly Tan, M. Thinaah, Pandelela Rinong, Gabriel, or Rodrigo."

According to regulations, FAM and the aforementioned players have 10 days to request a detailed decision and may also appeal to FIFA's Dispute Resolution Chamber as per current rules. Once FIFA's decision takes effect, the Asian Football Confederation's (AFC) Disciplinary Committee will review and determine the appropriate actions regarding FAM's violations.