The hidden trap that could ruin FAM's big election day

KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Sri Hamidin Amin's decision to step down from the FAM presidency has quelled speculation about his return to the role, but observers worry the upcoming leadership changes amount to little more than a reshuffle. Hamidin resigned from his position held from 2018 to last year. Concerns arise that the creation of an honorary president role could allow him to retain influence from behind the scenes.

The ceremonial post, previously dismissed by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), might enable Hamidin to step back while delegates vote on 10 executive committee positions on Sept 17.

Datuk Jamal Nasir Ismail warned against the congress becoming a mere display of change. The candidate line-up is determined by the delegates, and the structure of the next FAM leadership is entirely in their hands. Following AFC revelations about serious administrative failures during a recent extraordinary congress, delegates are faced with a crossroads. They must decide whether they seek a significant overhaul or are content with the status quo.

State affiliates and delegates often remain silent during crises, but Jamal emphasized collective responsibility. If delegates simply endorse the same power structures, they cannot later blame leadership for shortcomings. The 22-candidate list includes both experienced administrators and newcomers like Negri Sembilan CEO Faliq Firdaus and Selangor CEO Dr Johan Kamal Hamidon.

This marks the first time commercial club leaders have appeared on the ballot, potentially signaling a move towards modernizing the association with AFC support.

However, experienced individuals still hold prominent vice-presidential positions, raising concerns that club-based candidates could be marginalized by state FA voting blocs. Jamal cautioned that factional slate voting has historically undermined governance. He implored delegates to select a balanced, independent team, urging the inclusion of individuals with technical football backgrounds alongside traditional administrators.

Former internationals Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan and Datuk Ramlan Askolani were highlighted as examples.

Jamal stressed that administrators lacking firsthand football experience may struggle to grasp the sport's technical aspects. He proposed that individuals with genuine football backgrounds should demonstrate their administrative abilities over the next four years. If they fail, they should be replaced. Accountability, Jamal argued, requires holding people responsible and fostering genuine change. The FAM leadership line-up for the 2025-2029 term will be elected by delegates at the congress on Sept 17.