KUALA LUMPUR – A proposal to allow candidates aged up to 70 to contest the Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) top leadership positions has drawn criticism from a former football administrator, who warned that Malaysian football needs fresh leadership rather than ageing figures at the helm.
Former Kelantan FC chief executive officer and former Kelantan Football Association (KAFA) vice-president Ahmad Muzakkir Hamid said the proposed age limit was outdated and should instead be capped at 60.
He argued that leading FAM requires more than experience, demanding individuals who are physically energetic, mentally sharp and capable of making sound decisions under constant pressure.
“I do not believe allowing candidates to contest until the age of 70 is appropriate in today’s football landscape. At that stage of life, many individuals may no longer be able to cope with the physical and mental demands of leading a national football association.
“Running FAM is not a ceremonial role. It requires leaders who can think clearly, respond quickly to challenges and make difficult decisions without being influenced by emotion. If someone is no longer able to function effectively under pressure, it is Malaysian football that will ultimately pay the price.
“There is also the reality that advancing age can affect a person’s ability to remain alert and decisive. FAM cannot afford to be led by individuals who are unable to keep pace with the demands of modern football administration.
“We need leaders who are energetic, mentally resilient and fully committed to driving Malaysian football forward. The future of the sport depends on having capable people at the helm, not simply experienced ones,” he told Scoop.
Ahmad Muzakkir said lowering the maximum age to 60 would be a more practical benchmark, noting that it aligns with Malaysia’s mandatory retirement age for civil servants.
“A maximum age of 60 is far more reasonable. It reflects the retirement age in the public sector and acknowledges that leadership renewal is essential for any organisation that wants to remain progressive and competitive.
“Lowering the age limit would also open the door for a new generation of administrators to contribute fresh ideas, innovative thinking and a better understanding of the modern game.
“Football is evolving rapidly, both on and off the pitch. FAM needs leaders who are prepared to embrace those changes and make decisions that will strengthen Malaysian football over the long term,” he added.
He also called for FAM’s elections in September to be conducted in a transparent, fair and independent manner, free from external influence.
According to Ahmad Muzakkir, genuine democracy within the association can only be achieved if candidates are allowed to contest the top positions freely and delegates are able to vote without pressure.
“The election must be transparent and conducted with integrity. Delegates should be free to choose the candidates they believe are best suited to lead FAM, without pressure or influence from any party.
“There should be genuine contests for the association’s top posts because competition is the foundation of democracy. When there is accountability and openness in the electoral process, the organisation becomes stronger.
“Ultimately, Malaysian football deserves leaders who are elected through a process that is credible, transparent and trusted by the entire football fraternity,” he said. — July 8, 2026