The major question mark at Malaysia's football press conference following FIFA's sanction

"We are not hiding anything. An independent agency will review all documents and every step of the registration process, and those involved will be held accountable. However, we cannot rush and compromise the transparency and integrity of the process."

When asked who will be part of this panel, when it will start working, and whether the investigation results will be published, Mr. Sivasundaram only said the panel’s structure is "being finalized" and FAM "wants to handle this properly."

FAM’s lawyer, Serge Vittoz, insisted that the matter FIFA is addressing is purely administrative and unrelated to fraud.

He explained the issue originated from mistakes in recording and uploading the players’ naturalization documents.

"This is not forgery or identity misuse. The issue lies in how the documents were submitted and verified within FIFA’s system," Mr. Vittoz explained.

"There was inconsistency in entering some information, and due to FIFA’s strict procedures, even minor administrative errors can result in penalties."

Vittoz said FAM has filed an appeal with clarifying evidence and maintains "open and constructive" communication with FIFA’s legal department.

"We believe the submitted information will help FIFA fully understand the context of the case. There was no intention to deceive anyone. This is purely a procedural mistake, and the evidence will clearly show that."

Lawyer Vittoz – licensed in Switzerland and working for Charles Russell Speechlys (UK) – has represented many federations and players in cases before FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

He has also advised teams and players participating in the World Cup, experience that FAM considers essential for their current legal defense.

FAM Secretary General Noor Azman Rahman, responsible for player registration, has been suspended from duty.