DYAM Tunku Mahkota Ismail, the Regent of Johor, has clarified that the recent FIFA report concerning Malaysia’s seven heritage players did not originate from officials within the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) — despite earlier claims suggesting otherwise.
The revelation comes after widespread reports alleged that a representative from Vietnam had filed a formal complaint to FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee regarding the eligibility documents of Malaysia’s heritage players, which led to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the seven players being sanctioned by FIFA on September 26 for allegedly falsifying documents.
FAM swiftly denied any wrongdoing, explaining that the issue stemmed from a technical administrative error, not document forgery.
During a special press conference earlier today, DYAM Tunku Mahkota Ismail (TMJ) revealed that according to information from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), the report submitted to FIFA did not come from VFF officials such as the federation president or committee members.
“After our victory over Vietnam, there were disputes. When I asked the AFC, they informed me that the report was not filed by anyone from the Vietnam Football Federation, like the president or committee members — but rather by someone from Vietnam,” TMJ said.
“To me, that is very strange. The report did not come from the top officials of their football association, and that’s what the AFC told me.”
TMJ’s statement sheds new light on the controversy, suggesting that the origin of the report may be external or unofficial — raising further questions about motives and transparency behind the complaint.
The FAM’s legal team, supported by international lawyers, officially submitted an appeal to FIFA on October 15, seeking to overturn the sanctions placed on the seven heritage players and the national association.
The final decision on the appeal is expected to be announced on October 30, determining whether FIFA will uphold or revoke its earlier disciplinary action.
The case revolves around seven Malaysian heritage players—individuals of Malaysian descent who obtained citizenship and were called up for national duty. These players’ eligibility documents came under FIFA’s scrutiny following the report, resulting in temporary sanctions.
The situation has sparked significant attention across Southeast Asia, with TMJ consistently emphasizing the need for fair treatment and due process.
“This entire issue is unusual, and we hope the truth will prevail. What’s important is that the national team remains focused while we handle the matter professionally,” TMJ concluded.
If FIFA overturns the sanctions on October 30, the decision will clear the seven heritage players’ names and mark a major victory for FAM and Malaysian football — one that TMJ hopes will “restore integrity and trust” in the sport.
Credit Photo : HRH Crown Prince of Johor
