FAM must explain Hamidin honorary president move, says football critic

New Straits Times

8 hours ago

KUALA LUMPUR: The FA of Malaysia's (FAM) move to potentially name Tan Sri Hamidin Amin as honorary president is stirring debate, with critics questioning the need, timing and motive behind the decision.
FAM will convene an extraordinary congress on June 30, confirmed via a circular dated June 12, following its third executive committee meeting for the 2025-2029 term.
Although the agenda was not disclosed, Article 27(1) of the FAM Statutes requires each affiliate to send two delegates, with only one entitled to vote.
However, insiders suggest that the appointment of an honorary president could be one of the motions on the table.
According to FAM's 2020 Statutes, Article 19 permits the bestowal of honorary titles upon individuals who have rendered commendable service to Malaysian football — with the executive committee proposing the nomination, and Congress granting approval.
Honorary presidents hold no voting rights, but can attend Congress and take part in debates.
One vocal critic, Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli, questioned whether the move reflects a lack of confidence in the current FAM leadership under Datuk Joehari Ayub.
"In most major sporting bodies, if someone resigns or is voted out, a motion may be introduced to honour their service — like the International Olympic Committee recently did for Thomas Bach, who stepped down after managing the Russia doping scandal and the Covid crisis," said Pekan.
"But FAM is a bit different. If they want to name Hamidin honorary president, is it because the current leadership lacks strength? Or are there internal concerns that require him to stay involved?"
Pekan pointed out that this would not be a first for FAM. When the late Sultan Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Abu Bakar passed the presidency to his son, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, he was made honorary president in recognition of nearly three decades of service, including raising Malaysia's profile in Asean and Asian football.
"Has Hamidin contributed on the same level? How long has he served? I'm not sure. But I do know in other associations, outgoing leaders are sometimes retained in ceremonial roles because of their connections and value," Pekan added.
He cited the example of Tan Sri Norza Zakaria, who stepped down as BAM president but retained influence due to his role in the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and his corporate network, which helped in appointing a like-minded successor.
"If the goal is to preserve influence, then fine, but in FAM's case, I'm uncertain. Is there worry that the current leadership lacks pull and needs Hamidin to maintain relationships with FIFA?" he asked.
While honorary presidents have no executive authority, their symbolic role can influence perception, both domestically and internationally.
Pekan warned that a lack of transparency could undermine the integrity of the move.
"If Hamidin ends his term in 2025, then becomes honorary president — and still has FIFA connections — will he be pulling strings from behind the scenes? That could overshadow the current leadership," he said.
"This must be handled transparently. Is it desperation, or a backroom deal? Let's not forget, there were numerous issues under Hamidin's watch. If people start asking why he's being honoured despite that, what will FAM say?"
He stressed that the honorary role must remain purely ceremonial, without encroaching on day-to-day operations.
"Honorary presidents don't run the office or issue instructions. They show up at big events, offer advice when asked, and symbolise continuity.
"If FAM really intends to appoint one, then it must clearly explain the rationale and ensure it does not compromise the autonomy of the sitting president."