The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has announced a major restructuring of the national team setup after confirming the departures of National Team CEO Rob Friend, senior national team head coach Peter Cklamovski, and several key members of the coaching staff through mutual agreement.
The sweeping changes mark a new chapter for Harimau Malaya, with FAM now preparing to appoint new leadership as it looks to reshape the direction of Malaysia’s national football programme.
FAM confirmed that the contract of Robert Douglas Friend, better known as Rob Friend, has been terminated by mutual consent, effective 1 June 2026.
The former Canadian international was appointed as National Team CEO to oversee the long-term development and strategic management of the Malaysian national teams. His departure brings an end to a significant chapter as FAM begins planning for its next phase.
In a further shake-up, the contracts of Peter Cklamovski, along with senior national team technical staff members Matthew Smith and Seiya Imazaki, have also been mutually terminated, effective 16 June 2026.
The decision leaves Malaysia searching for a new head coach and technical team ahead of upcoming international competitions, with FAM expected to announce replacement appointments in due course.
FAM also confirmed that Malaysia Under-23 head coach Nafuzi Zain and goalkeeping coach Mohd Yazid Mohd Yassin have mutually agreed to end their contracts, effective 15 June 2026.
The move signals a comprehensive review of the national team structure across multiple age-group levels.
In its official statement, FAM expressed its respect for the decisions reached and extended its sincere appreciation to all departing personnel for their dedication, commitment and contributions throughout their service with Malaysia’s national teams.
The governing body acknowledged the professionalism shown by each individual and thanked them for their efforts in developing Malaysian football.
To ensure continuity and stability within the national team programme, FAM stated that it is currently undertaking the necessary processes to fill the vacant positions.
Further announcements regarding the future structure of the national teams, including new appointments, will be made in due course as Malaysian football enters a new era.
Credit Photo : HongZheng Lim/SNE-Photo
