Taufiq tells FAM to focus on grassroots after 2.58m fines claim
KUALA LUMPUR: The new leadership of the FA of Malaysia (FAM), to be elected on Sept 17, should focus on developing football at grassroots level rather than merely running the association, said Youth and Sports Minister Dr Taufiq Johari.
Malaysia's new FA leadership, set to be elected on September 17, should prioritize grassroots football development over solely managing the association, according to Youth and Sports Minister Dr Taufiq Johari. FAM deputy president Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar suggested that RM2.58 million spent on fines in the 2025 audited financial statements should encourage the association to concentrate on enhancing the quality of players at grassroots level, where he is vying for the FAM presidency against Malaysian Football League president Datuk Ghani Hassan.
Taufiq emphasized that his ministry will continue discussions on funding allocations to ensure the funds aren't solely allocated to the association or its development. He stressed that the funds should be directed towards improving grassroots development, notably through the National Football Development Programme (NFDP) and other initiatives aimed at elevating the standard of football at the grassroots level.
However, Taufiq stated that the ministry would refrain from interfering in the internal operations of sports associations and expressed optimism that the newly elected FAM leadership would bring about positive transformations to Malaysian football.
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