XONG: Clear timing for Malaysia to receive FIFA appeal ruling

The Football Association of Malaysia will learn the outcome of the appeal on or after October 30.

On the afternoon of October 17, Harimau Malaya’s CEO, Mr. Rob Friend, clarified the national team’s role in the case where FIFA sanctioned the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM).

Mr. Friend emphasized that Harimau Malaya focuses solely on football performance and is not involved in administrative procedures or player naturalization dossiers—which were the reasons FIFA imposed the penalty.

“Our role is simply to evaluate and recommend players with potential. Only after FIFA completes the process and confirms eligibility can they represent the national team,” he said. Rob Friend stated this during a press conference at the FAM headquarters.

He also rejected negative criticisms directed at Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, calling many online comments unreasonable.

According to his disclosure, FIFA sent a notice to FAM on August 22. Upon receiving this, Mr. Rob Friend immediately engaged an international legal team to protect the players’ rights and safeguard the national team’s reputation. Leading the legal team is Mr. Serge Vittoz (from Charles Russell Speechlys law firm), who is directly handling the appeal case with FIFA.

Notably, according to lawyer Vittoz, FIFA’s Appeal Committee is expected to issue a decision on October 30. The result may be announced on the same day or shortly thereafter.

If the players or involved parties disagree with the decision, they can further appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for reconsideration. The lawyer also stressed that FAM’s goal throughout the legal process is to protect the players and prove that FAM was not involved in any fraudulent actions that led to FIFA’s sanction.

Also today, October 17, the Football Association of Malaysia officially suspended the position of Secretary General held by Mr. Datuk Noor Azman Rahman.

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