Former Johor Darul Ta’zim player Nazri Ahmad has come out strongly in defence of Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (TMJ), insisting that the Johor Regent will remain steadfast amid ongoing criticism and controversy surrounding alleged documentation issues involving Harimau Malaya heritage players.
Speaking on the Harimau Malaya page, Nazri stressed that TMJ is not the type to retreat under pressure—if anything, criticism only fuels his resolve.
“I can guarantee Tuanku will not give up. He will continue, because he knows his agenda. In my view, the more people criticise him, the more motivated he becomes,” said Nazri.
Nazri cited TMJ’s role in reviving the Liga Perdana as a clear example of his long-term vision for Malaysian football—one that prioritises local player development.
“The Premier League was brought back with a model that is 100 per cent local. If there are imports, maybe one or two is enough just to add competitiveness,” he explained.
He questioned the Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) broader role, arguing that football governance should not focus solely on active professional players.
“If FAM only looks after players who are currently active, then what is the point of having a players’ association?” he added.
Nazri also raised a critical point regarding the timing of the controversy, questioning why allegations of document falsification only emerged after Malaysia recorded positive results.
“Why did this issue arise? Because Malaysia won. If Malaysia had lost the previous three matches, would this issue have come up? Probably not.”
According to him, the situation reflects a toxic cycle where the national team is criticised regardless of results.
“When you win, you get criticised. When you lose, you get criticised. So what do they actually want?”
Nazri urged fans and observers to adopt a more responsible and respectful approach.
“If we can’t contribute, then we should stay quiet. But if we want to give feedback, do it properly—raise questions, not accusations.”
He stressed that no party should be judged before the facts are conclusively established.
Nazri revealed that, based on feedback from TMJ himself, the Johor Regent is determined to seek clarity and justice, including bringing the matter to the international sports court, if necessary.
“FIFA had already approved the documentation before those three matches. If it wasn’t approved, the players wouldn’t have been allowed to play in the first place.”
He believes TMJ is seeking a clear explanation from FIFA as to why questions only arose after Malaysia’s victories.
“It’s not about money. Even if you’re not wealthy, if you’re accused of something, you’d want answers. Once you get a proper explanation, only then can you have peace of mind.”
Nazri reminded the public that TMJ is also human and deeply invested in Malaysian football—often at his own expense.
“How many people in Malaysia are willing to spend their own money on football? Apart from politicians?”
He concluded by calling for unity and empathy, stressing that TMJ’s fight is not for personal gain or Johor alone.
“This is not for himself. Not just for Johor. This is for Malaysia. What Tuanku needs now is support—not condemnation—to keep fighting for Malaysian football.”
Credit Photo : The Photoshooterz
