ISKANDAR PUTERI: FA of Malaysia (FAM) president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim is not fazed by withdrawal threats by teams handed heavy fines for submitting late or incomplete registration documents.
Tunku Ismail said the negative attitude of the teams reflects poorly on their professionalism which would hamper FAM's effort in raising the quality of football management in the country.
The 10 teams have 14 days to file an appeal against the fines imposed by Football Malaysia LLP (FMLLP), which Tunku Ismail said would be given due consideration.
"But if any team want to withdraw, please do," he said after chairing an FAM executive committee meeting today.
“I speak not just in my capacity as the FAM president but also as the FMLLP chairman. A fine is still a fine, but the teams can appeal and we will consider it.
"We will study their appeals and see what reasons they give. Wait for the decisions because the fines could be reduced.
"I was informed recently of a case where the document was complete but the treasurer did not submit it. That's not my fault and it shows the weakness of the team's management."
On Tuesday, FMLLP announced fines of RM1.5 million on four Super League teams, Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur, PKNS and Selangor, and RM500,000 for six Premier League teams, Kuantan, Malaysian Indian FA (MIFA), Penang, Police, Sarawak and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.
MIFA president Datuk T. Mohan responded by saying it would be better to withdraw than pay a fine which could cripple the club.
Tunku Ismail advised all the clubs and state FAs to take steps to improve their management to safeguard the interest of sponsors and the sport itself.
"Last time, they did not even get one sen yet they survived," said Tunku Ismail.
"Everyone has their weaknesses so don't blame others. That is my view.
"On Wednesday, we will disburse the grant of RM3 million to Super League teams and RM1 million to Premier League teams. This is only the start and there could be more to come."