KUALA LUMPUR — Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) president Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin has pledged to address the alleged existence of a “supernatural hand” influencing Malaysian football if such claims prove true.
He emphasised the need for integrity, proper governance, and adherence to the Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) constitution to ensure transparency.
“If you want to be a president, and there is a ‘supernatural hand,’ you must handle it wisely without compromising principles, procedures, and governance.
“You cannot bulldoze or make decisions without consensus—that’s wrong.
“You must be advised on its existence, and you must be able to determine what should and shouldn’t be done to maintain the integrity of the association,” Megat said during a press conference today, reported Bernama.
Megat, who has expressed interest in contesting the FAM presidency for the 2025-2029 term, highlighted the importance of financial transparency and sustainability within the association.
“If I have the opportunity to become FAM president, the first step is to thoroughly examine FAM’s accounts, liabilities, and financial exposure.
“Affiliates must be fully informed of the association’s financial movements before discussing the way forward,” he said.
Megat added that addressing financial leakages and ensuring accountability to FAM affiliates would be key priorities if he were to assume leadership.
The FAM presidential election is scheduled to take place during the association’s congress on February 15, with the nomination deadline set for January 16. Candidates require six nominations from affiliates to contest.
Other potential contenders include former FAM deputy president Datuk Seri Afandi Hamzah, corporate member Sayf Ismail, and current vice-president Datuk Mohd Joehari Mohd Ayub, who is reportedly the frontrunner to replace outgoing president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin. — January 3, 2025