PETALING JAYA, 27 April –
While Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh’s call for football fans to behave better during matches is appreciated, the ministry must also implement comprehensive reforms to address the root causes of hooliganism, a community activist said today.
The activist stated that openly criticizing fans without proactive measures risks alienating genuine supporters without solving the fundamental issues plaguing the nation’s sporting culture.
> “Before issuing public warnings, the ministry should first ensure that the football-watching experience is safe, organized, and welcoming for all segments of society. Good management, meticulous safety planning, and effective fan engagement strategies are crucial,” the activist said.
He was responding to Hannah Yeoh’s recent remarks urging fans to “stop causing trouble” following an altercation between supporters outside the Bukit Jalil National Stadium ahead of last night’s Malaysia Cup final.
Proposals to Enhance Stadium Safety
The activist proposed several concrete measures to strengthen safety and improve the atmosphere in stadiums:
1. Strengthening Pre-Match Security Measures
Deploying more security personnel inside and around stadiums.
Establishing separate security zones for rival supporters.
Conducting risk assessments prior to each event.
2. Fan Education and Engagement Programs
Launching awareness campaigns on sportsmanship and responsible support.
Collaborating with football clubs to develop positive fan groups.
3. Family-Friendly Zones
Creating dedicated sections within stadiums for families with children, with additional security oversight.
4. Strict Punishments for Troublemakers
Imposing lifetime bans on individuals found guilty of causing disturbances.
Working closely with the police to prosecute repeat offenders.
5. Stadium Infrastructure Improvements
Investing in better lighting, CCTV installations, and clear spectator movement pathways to avoid congestion.
6. Fostering a Sporting Culture from the Ground Up
Integrating positive sporting values into school curricula and local sports academies.
A Call for Balance
The activist emphasized that Malaysia’s football culture should not be condemned due to the actions of a few individuals.
> “Football is the people’s game. Instead of merely chastising fans, we must build a culture where fans, clubs, organizers, and authorities work together to protect the spirit of the game. It must start with leadership and concrete action, not just advice,” he stressed.
As Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) celebrated their historic victory over Sri Pahang FC in the final last night, Malaysians were reminded of the immense potential of local football — a potential that must be safeguarded through wise policies, not merely reactive statements.