KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin has outlined plans to revolutionise Malaysian football by standing for the presidency of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), with a strong focus on inclusivity, bringing para football and mainstream football under one unified body.
Speaking to Scoop, the president of the Paralympic Council Malaysia (PCM) said his vision aligns with Fifa’s global advocacy for inclusivity, ensuring that all forms of football, including blind football, amputee football, and cerebral palsy football, are represented and given a platform within the national structure.
“Inclusivity is the future of football. Fifa emphasises this, and we must adopt it. Football belongs to everyone — able-bodied players, para-athletes, and the fans. I want to create a system where all forms of football are under one body, working together to elevate the sport in Malaysia,” he said when contacted.
Megat, who intends to run for FAM president once the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) completes its assessment of the association, addressed critics questioning his domestic football experience.
He said leadership requires more than just on-field experience.
“Football is not a field for individuals to operate alone. You can be a great coach without having played professionally. Others may have played extensively but lack administrative experience. What matters is bringing the right people together to manage football effectively,” he said.
He urged all stakeholders, including state football associations and member bodies, to participate actively in shaping the sport’s future.
“These are the rights of the states and member associations. If the delegates do not fulfil their responsibilities properly, the future of our football could be at risk,” he said.
Megat also stressed the importance of uniting the football community and returning the sport to the fans.
“Rather than debating who is qualified or not, it is better for all of us to unite and set things right. Football is not just about one person. It’s about all of us — the states, the players, the fans. Together, we can restore dignity and success to FAM,” he said.
He highlighted that his inclusive approach would ensure para football receives the recognition and resources it deserves while promoting a more professional, accountable, and transparent governance structure.
“This is not just about able-bodied football. It’s about blind football, amputee football, and cerebral palsy football too. These athletes deserve the same platform, the same voice, the same respect. By including everyone under one system, we strengthen Malaysian football as a whole,” he said. – April 9, 2026