KUALA LUMPUR – Selangor FC have thrown their support behind Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar to become the new president of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), saying he has the experience and capability to lead the national governing body and push through much-needed reforms.
Shahril, who is also deputy president of the Selangor Football Association (FAS), will go head-to-head with Malaysian Football League (MFL) president Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan for the top FAM post at the association’s election congress on Thursday.
Selangor FC chief executive officer Dr Johan Kamal Hamidon said Shahril had the necessary experience and leadership qualities to steer FAM while bringing further improvements to Malaysian football.
However, he stressed that the final decision rested with FAM affiliates, who would determine the direction of the national governing body and the future of Malaysian football.
“Affiliates must believe and have confidence that they play a very important role in the development of Malaysian football.
“FAM belongs to everyone, and every affiliate needs to be involved in the development of football. I believe that with unity and confidence, we can take Malaysian football further.
“So, I hope they will give their support and confidence to Datuk Seri Shahril, who, through his manifesto, wants to bring about reforms.
“He is not dismissing what has been done so far, but believes that what has been done can be improved and enhanced further. I believe all affiliates will make the best decision when they vote on Thursday,” he told Scoop when contacted.
Johan is also among five candidates vying for two club (FC) seats on the FAM Executive Committee (Exco).
He will face Datuk Kamarudin Hassan, Datuk Syed Mahadi Syed Hassan, Datuk Dr P Sugumaran and Muhammad Faliq Firdaus in the contest for the two positions.
Explaining his decision to contest the Exco election, Johan said he was ready to contribute to the development of Malaysian football if elected, drawing on his experience with Selangor FC and FAS.
“I will do my best to work together with colleagues from other states so that we can share ideas on a more sustainable football development structure involving all parties,” he said. – September 15, 2026