KUALA LUMPUR – Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) will have to temporarily play without their star winger, Arif Aiman Hanapi, for the Malaysia Cup campaign starting tomorrow, as he has been handed a three-match suspension by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM).
Perak FC’s Tommy Mawat faces the same fate after both players were involved in an on-field altercation during a Super League match at Stadium Sultan Ibrahim, Iskandar Puteri, on November 10.
The incident unfolded in the 83rd minute when Tommy attempted to block Arif’s run, escalating into a physical confrontation. Tommy was seen grabbing Arif by the neck, prompting the JDT player to retaliate with a punch to Tommy’s head, as teammates and referee Razlan Joffri Ali tried to intervene.
In a statement today, FAM Disciplinary Committee Chairman, Datuk Dr. Baljit Singh Sidhu, confirmed both players were issued stern warnings and warned of harsher penalties for any future misconduct.
“Arif Aiman Hanapi breached Article 59 of the FAM Disciplinary Code, which relates to offensive behaviour and fair play, for punching Perak FC player Tommy Mawat Bada on the left side of his face during the match.
“The player is suspended for three matches, covering the first and second legs of the Malaysia Cup Round of 16 against Kuala Lumpur Rovers FC on November 20 & 30, 2024, as well as a Super League match against Kuala Lumpur City FC on December 8.
“Similarly, Tommy Mawat Bada breached Article 59 for headbutting and grabbing the neck of Johor Darul Ta’zim player Arif Aiman Hanapi during the same match.
“He is also suspended for three matches, including the first and second legs of the Malaysia Cup Round of 16 against Kelantan Darul Naim FC on November 22 & 30, and a Super League match against Kedah Darul Aman FC on December 4,” Baljit said in the statement.
Both players retain the right to appeal the decision. – November 19, 2024