KUALA LUMPUR — National football team chief executive officer Rob Friend has urged all stakeholders in Malaysian football to put aside differences and focus on unity, professionalism, and rebuilding trust following the recent naturalisation controversy
Friend said the ongoing debate had created unnecessary division and detracted from the bigger mission of improving Malaysian football together.
“This isn’t the time for finger-pointing. It’s the time to rebuild through reform — with accountability, and collaboration,” he told Scoop.
He emphasised that Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) owner Tunku Mahkota Johor (TMJ) Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim should not be unfairly drawn into the issue, stressing that the Regent’s contribution has always been visionary and motivational rather than operational.
“He’s operating at 30,000 feet, visionary and energy — not handling documents or administration. His vision inspires players, coaches, and fans alike,” Friend explained.
Friend said TMJ’s commitment had long been a catalyst for progress in both the national setup and domestic football, and that the focus should now be on working together to strengthen governance, trust, and performance.
“It’s easy to criticise, but we need to remember he’s one of the few who’s consistently contributed to moving the game forward. Malaysian football needs more unity, not division,” Friend said.
He added that while the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) must take steps to address internal matters, it was equally important for everyone — from clubs to media and supporters — to rebuild confidence collectively.
“Mistakes happen, and they must be corrected. But what matters most now is learning from them and working together to restore pride and integrity to Malaysian football,” he said.
Friend reaffirmed his commitment to helping the federation identify solutions and strengthen systems for the future, saying the national project should transcend politics and personal agendas.
“We all share the same dream — to see Malaysia rise again, to reach the Asian Cup and one day the World Cup. That requires unity above all else,” he said. – October 24, 2025