Public scrutiny of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) continues to intensify today following the collective resignation of its entire executive committee on January 28. The crisis stems from a naturalization scandal involving seven foreign-born players who were allegedly fast-tracked using forged documents. While elected officials have stepped down, questions are now being raised about why the national team’s chief executive, Rob Friend, remains in his role despite the governance failure. 

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail updated Parliament today that police are still investigating allegations of document forgery under Section 420 of the Penal Code. The investigation involves verifying birth and identity documents with the National Registration Department. The Youth and Sports Ministry has urged FAM to resolve the internal turmoil prudently to restore public confidence in the national sport before the final CAS verdict is delivered in late February.