Hamidin Made Right Move Not To Defend Post - Former Harimau Malaya Manager

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 (Bernama) -- The decision by Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin not to defend his position at next year’s election is the right move, according to former national team manager Datuk Kamarul Ariffin Mohd Shahar.

He said it reflects Hamidin's sense of accountability in the wake of recent issues and controversies surrounding the national team and his leadership.

“Knowing him, I believe he is taking full responsibility by not defending the position, especially since all sorts of rumours have emerged lately.

“Given all the speculation, the national team’s struggle when they should have qualified for the Asian Cup by now and the sudden departure of Kim Pan Gon, which disrupted the team’s progress, I think his decision is timely.

“It gives opportunities for new faces to step forward and contest,” said Kamarul, who managed the Harimau Malaya squad during the 2023 Asian Cup, when contacted by Bernama today.

Yesterday, Hamidin, who has held the top position in FAM since July 2018, announced he would not defend his presidency at the 2025–2029 term FAM Election Congress, scheduled for Feb 15.

He said the decision was made to give way to new leadership capable of bringing FAM to greater heights.

Meanwhile, FAM deputy president Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi said Hamidin’s departure would be a big loss, as he has contributed to the growth of Malaysian football, including introducing reforms.

“We will feel the loss of someone who has brought change to our football. Over his approximately six years in FAM, he has positioned the association in a better place than before.

“Whoever steps forward to replace him must take on this responsibility. In my opinion, this is a high-stakes role that will determine FAM’s future. Affiliates need to carefully consider and choose the right person to ensure continuity,” he said.

Hamidin's appointment as the FAM chief to replace Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail was announced at the 54th FAM Congress.

Hamidin then retained the post unopposed for the 2021-2025 term at the 57th FAM Congress.

He is a member of the FIFA Council for the 2023-2027 term and serves on the Executive Committee of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), where he has been appointed as the chairman of the AFC Finance Committee.

-- BERNAMA