FAM in danger
PULLOUT: AFF secretary warns of sanctions should Malaysia withdraw
THE FA of Malaysia (FAM) and the Asean Football Federation (AFF) are dumbfounded over the “sudden” calls by certain quarters for the national team to withdraw from the AFF Cup in protest against the treatment of ethnic Rohingyas.
The Cabinet will decide today whether the national team will withdraw from the AFF Cup.
Malaysia face Myanmar in their final Group B match tomorrow with coach Ong Kim Swee’s side needing a win to qualify for the semi-finals.
The national team risk an international ban from all football activities by world body, Fifa, if Malaysia withdraw from the AFF Cup.
The football competition in next year’s Sea Games in Kuala Lumpur will also be affected if Fifa suspend FAM for government interference over the matter.
AFF will also take stern action by banning Malaysia from the 2018 and 2020 AFF Cup editions as stipulated in their statutes.
FAM general secretary Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin questioned the timing of the issue as a decision should have been made before the tournament.
“Why is football being victimised? Football is independent and Fifa discourage government interference. At this stage, we will not withdraw pending the Cabinet’s decision,” said Hamidin in Yangon yesterday.
“I hope the Cabinet will make the right decision. However, FAM’s executive committee has the final say if we are instructed to withdraw. The team will only adhere to the exco’s decision.
“We have only one more match left in the AFF Cup on Saturday. If we withdraw now, will Myanmar be then barred from the Sea Games next year?
“FAM will face sanctions from Fifa and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). I think there are other methods to show protest over the issues.”
AFF secretary Datuk Seri Azzuddin Ahmad said Myanmar officials in Yangon are concerned over the matter.
“The AFF Cup is a tool to unite people in Asean and it is the most anticipated competition in this region. Why now? The (Rakhine State) issue has been going on for a long time.
“AFF could face legal action from sponsors while FAM could be sanctioned from all football activities. Malaysia will definitely be barred from hosting the football event at next year’s Sea Games.
“If Malaysia withdraw, FAM will be brought to the AFF disciplinary board, and they could be barred from the upcoming two editions.”