Is the Football Association of Malaysia playing a trick?

What hidden intentions does Malaysia have behind appealing against the clear evidence from FIFA in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers?

After FIFA announced the investigation results revealing that the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) misused documents for seven naturalized players, many believed that the punishment was only a matter of time. However, instead of accepting the verdict, FAM chose to appeal, sparking widespread debate about the true motives behind this decision.

Maintaining the National Team’s Morale

According to analysts, continuing the appeal is not only a legal move but also a way for FAM to uphold the fighting spirit of the national team. Amid increasing public pressure, the motto "never give up" takes priority. Extending the process allows Malaysia more time for professional preparation, maintains locker room stability, and protects the team’s image on the continental stage. The coaching staff and players need to stay motivated to move forward during such a critical period.

As confirmed by AFC Secretary General Datuk Seri Windsor Paul John, Malaysia is still allowed to play all matches in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers despite ongoing legal issues. He stated that AFC will wait for FAM to complete the appeal process before making a final decision, with a deadline of March 31, 2026 — coinciding with the last round of qualifiers. This means that although FIFA found violations in the naturalization documents of seven players, Malaysia retains the right to compete until all procedures are finalized.

"Buying time" to lessen the penalty

In an effort to overturn FIFA’s sanction, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) is reportedly mobilizing all resources, reaching out to partners and influential figures in the region to find ways to "untangle" the situation and reduce the disciplinary measures. In its latest statement, FAM reiterated that FIFA’s investigation conclusions are "inaccurate" and requested the authority to "mitigate the punishment to an administrative fine only."

According to FAM, the case does not involve deliberate fraud but is simply an "administrative error" caused by a staff member’s mistake during document processing. This individual "accidentally uploaded documents from an agent instead of official papers issued by the National Registration Department," causing the entire process to be misunderstood as forgery. FAM emphasized that they never intended to cheat and have always complied with international football regulations.

The appeal, according to FAM, is being completed with "valid original documents certified by the Malaysian government." The association stated they will transparently present the case to prove the mistake was purely technical. "We are committed to protecting the integrity of national football based on factual events and authentic documents," the statement said. Meanwhile, FIFA insists this is a "serious forgery offense," not an administrative slip, and stressed that "the authenticity of player records is the foundation of professional football."

Calming public opinion and stakeholders

Besides defending sports rights, FAM’s move is also seen as an attempt to soothe domestic public opinion, which has heated up after the controversy. Facing fierce criticism from fans and experts, the organization must demonstrate it still controls the situation. By issuing continuous statements, FAM wants to affirm it acts within legal frameworks, does not evade responsibility, and actively handles the issue according to international procedures.

At the same time, skillful media management helps them maintain the credibility of the Sports Committee and related government agencies involved in the players’ naturalization process. However, the organization refuses to disclose detailed files, citing the "Official Secrets Act 1972" and the "Passport Act 1966," thereby avoiding revealing information that could make the case more sensitive and complicated.

Many observers believe the delay is FAM’s way to find a safe exit: preserving the chance to appeal while protecting Malaysia’s football image before AFC and FIFA. It is also seen as an effort to minimize the ripple effect on domestic sports authorities, who face public accountability pressure. Still, the question remains — will this "stalling" strategy be enough to help Malaysia avoid severe penalties, or will it further erode fan trust?