Restoring Public Trust: The FAM Scandal Reflects a Broader Integrity Crisis
Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) is deeply concerned by the recent revelations involving the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the naturalisation of ineligible players. This is not simply a matter of footballing mismanagement—it reflects a wider integrity deficit that continues to erode public trust in national institutions.
In September, FIFA suspended seven players from the national team and sanctioned FAM after determining that falsified documentation had been used in the registration process. In its ruling, FIFA was unequivocal: submitting “fraudulent documentation” is “a form of cheating” that “erodes trust in the fairness” of competition. This is not an isolated administrative error—it is a governance failure with national and international consequences.
At a press conference on 17 October 2025, FAM leaders attempted to address the issue by suspending their Secretary-General and announcing the formation of an “independent committee.” However, instead of offering clarity, FAM officials delivered evasive responses and deflected responsibility. FAM Vice-President Datuk S. Sivasundaram characterised the situation as an “administrative lapse,” while the association’s legal counsel asserted that “there was no forgery on the side of the FAM as an institution,” placing blame on unnamed individuals.
These statements have failed to satisfy public concern. Malaysians expect and deserve transparency—not ambiguity. As TI-M President, I must state plainly: “This scandal has struck a nerve because it mirrors a wider pattern of opaque decision-making, weak institutional safeguards, and unwillingness to accept responsibility. The issue is not just whether rules were broken—it is how those entrusted to uphold them are responding. Defensiveness is not accountability.”
Transparency International Malaysia calls for immediate and uncompromising action.
First, FAM must release the full findings of all internal and independent investigations. The structure, scope, and timeline of the so-called independent committee must be made public. Transparency cannot be partial.
Second, accountability must be pursued wherever the evidence leads. If individuals within or connected to FAM facilitated or approved forged documents, they must be held fully responsible—no matter their position. FIFA has stated clearly that this conduct “cannot in any way be condoned.” Malaysia must uphold the same standard.
Third, the role of the Ministry of Home Affairs in approving these citizenships must be examined. Reuters reported that the Home Minister exercised discretionary powers to grant naturalisation. Such discretion must be subject to clear justification, transparency, and independent oversight. Citizenship is not a matter of administrative convenience—it is a matter of national integrity.
Fourth, the naturalisation framework for athletes must be reviewed and reformed. Procedures must be grounded in fairness, supported by robust verification, and insulated from political or private interference. The rules must apply equally to all.
Let us be clear: this controversy is more than a sports scandal. It is a reflection of systemic vulnerabilities—where rules can be bent, due diligence ignored, and accountability delayed. As I have said publicly, “Integrity is not something that can be outsourced or spun into place. It must be practiced—deliberately, visibly, and without exception. Our institutions are only as strong as the courage of those who lead them.”
Transparency International Malaysia urges FAM, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Parliament, and relevant oversight bodies to act swiftly, decisively, and in full view of the public.
Malaysians are watching—not just because they love the game, but because they believe in a country that lives up to its values. We owe them honest answers, responsible leadership, and real reform.
Transparency International Malaysia
25 October 2025
