FAM to Look into Proposal for Independent Refereeing Body
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has announced that it will consider the proposal to establish an independent refereeing body for the Malaysia League (Liga-M), as suggested by Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) owner Tunku Mahkota Ismail.
FAM Values Suggestions and Feedback
FAM Deputy President Datuk S. Sivasundaram acknowledged the concerns raised by Tunku Mahkota Ismail through a post on X yesterday, calling for a refereeing body independent of the national football governing body. "FAM highly values all suggestions and feedback from Tunku Mahkota Ismail. We welcome such input with an open heart," he said.
Proposal for Foreign Referees
Sivasundaram also addressed Tunku Mahkota Ismail’s proposal that teams dissatisfied with refereeing decisions be allowed to hire and pay for foreign referees to officiate their matches. However, he emphasized that all related costs, including referee allowances, accommodation, and meals, must be borne by the respective teams. "FAM or MFL (Malaysia Football League) will not cover the costs of hiring foreign referees. It is important to note that securing foreign referees is very expensive, with payments made in US dollars (USD)," he said.
Admiration for Local Referees
At the same time, Sivasundaram expressed admiration for local referees’ performances in the M-League this season, noting that some have earned recognition from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). He pointed out that FAM had received only four written complaints from 161 matches this season, as local referees demonstrated strong knowledge of the game’s laws and high fitness levels, aided by the effectiveness of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
Other Concerns Raised
Tunku Mahkota Ismail also raised concerns regarding poor stadium and pitch conditions, delays in player salary payments, and certain team managements failing to prioritize their club’s welfare. Sivasundaram criticized those who frequently make excuses and shift blame onto FAM and MFL for their own shortcomings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the FAM will consider the proposal for an independent refereeing body and has welcomed the feedback from Tunku Mahkota Ismail. The association will also continue to support and develop local referees to ensure the high standards of the M-League.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is FAM considering the proposal for an independent refereeing body?
A: FAM values suggestions and feedback from stakeholders, including Tunku Mahkota Ismail, and will consider the proposal to improve the refereeing process in the M-League.
Q: Will FAM cover the costs of hiring foreign referees?
A: No, all related costs, including referee allowances, accommodation, and meals, must be borne by the respective teams.
Q: How has FAM supported local referees?
A: FAM has provided training and development opportunities for local referees through the Professional Referee Academy Project, resulting in some earning recognition from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).