Sanusi wants FAM to chart its own course

Malaysia's Football Association (FAM) must break free from external control and take charge of the country's football scene, according to Kedah FA president Datuk Seri Sanusi Md Nor. Sanusi urged FAM's affiliates to demonstrate bravery in making significant changes to the governing body's leadership, ensuring decisions prioritize Malaysian football's interests over other parties.

He expressed concern that recent decisions in Malaysian football have not always been made by FAM and its affiliates but instead followed by others. Sanusi emphasized that FAM should not blindly follow anyone's orders and should discuss matters properly. He also highlighted that the heavy reliance on foreign talent in the domestic league has marginalized local players and questioned the policy allowing clubs to register up to 15 foreign players.

Sanusi advocated for greater opportunities, better salaries, and exposure for local players to enhance their quality. He questioned the allocation of large sums spent by football associations, arguing that more revenue should remain within the country. Sanusi cautioned against blindly adopting expensive overseas football models, urging FAM and clubs to consider the financial realities of Malaysian football.

He also lamented that Malaysia had previously qualified for the Olympics with a team of local players but now struggles to achieve such successes due to the focus on foreign players. Sanusi urged FAM delegates to use the upcoming election to determine the direction of Malaysian football independently and confidently.