KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari today criticised the Malaysian Football League (MFL) for its recent decision concerning Selangor Football Club (Selangor FC), denouncing it as unjust.
In a statement, the Menteri Besar expressed the state government's dismay, echoing sentiments shared by Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who also voiced anger and disappointment at MFL's handling of the matter.
The controversy arose after MFL imposed a substantial RM100,000 fine on Selangor FC.
Amirudin said the actions taken by MFL not only disregards fairness but also neglects the humane treatment of players, more so in light of the recent violent incidents involving footballer .
Amirudin labelled the assault on footballer Faisal Halim as a blot on the nation's football legacy.
He emphasised MFL's role as a custodian of justice in football, urging measures that prioritise player safety, reject violence and show empathy to the players.
"His Royal Highness decree was expressed following MFL's actions, which not only imposed a fine of RM100,000 on Selangor FC but also increased the punishment by forcing matches in Selangor to be played without spectators," he said.
In addition to this, MFL further burdened Selangor FC by imposing a three-point deduction penalty at a time when JDT had already received a free victory in the Charity Shield, he added.
"This unprecedented action, which has sparked anger and disappointment among supporters, should serve as a signal to MFL that their decisions were made without any sense of responsibility," Amirudin added.
"Taking heed and guidance from the decree of His Royal Highness, I have discussed with the Selangor State Sports EXCO and the State Government, who have agreed to launch a joint effort that provides an opportunity for all parties, including Selangor fans, to raise funds to pay the fine imposed by MFL," Amirudin said.
He said further details of this initiative will be shared soon by the Selangor State Sports Council and the State Sports EXCO.
"To drive this solidarity effort, myself and the State Executive Council will also contribute to the fundraising and fine payment efforts next week, as a commitment to uphold justice for Selangor FC," Amirudin said.