KUALA LUMPUR: Even though Football Malaysia Limited Liability Partnership (FMLLP) are currently taking the heat for the latest controversy involving the punishment handed out to 10 Malaysia League (M-league) teams, it is widely believed that Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim is still the best man or candidate to lead the Malaysia League’s (M-League) management body as the elections which will be held during annual congress on March 25.
FMLLP are planning to amend their constitution during the annual congress and if the proposal is approved by all 24 stakeholders, then there will be candidates nominated to head FMLLP which is what Tunku Ismail is doing now.
At present, the post of FMLLP chairman is automatically filled by the FA of Malaysia (FAM) president, which is Tunku Ismail, and the proposed amendments to the constitution are among efforts to separate the two organisations.
However with the current changes and developments taking place which are being pushed for by Tunku Ismail, who is also very influential in attracting and convincing sponsors to come on board, are there any other candidates who want to vie for the top post?
FMLLP chief executive officer, Kevin Ramalingam himself admits that it’s imposible to deny that Tunku Ismail is still the best candidate to lead FMLLP.
"Nominations are open to just about anyone that is thought to be qualified by the 24 stakeholders, but personally for me, Tunku Ismail is still the best candidate even though the separation idea is his brainchild as soon as he became FAM president.
"It will be difficult for any other candidates because the sponsors have complete faith and trust in Tunku Ismail, in fact I believe all the teams also want him to continue to lead. Just look at all the changes and developments that are taking place now, a few initiatives and plans to improve the level of our football league are courtesy of the cooperation and good relationship as well as understanding enjoyed with outside entities such as La Liga as an example,” he said when met recently.
At present, there are a few who are of the opinion that it is unwise for Tunku Ismail to hold FMLLP’s top post as he is also the owner of Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), apart from being FAM president.
Kevin however explained that Tunku Ismail can decline nomination if he wants to.
"We want the 24 stakeholders in FMLLP to vote and choose a chairman, and Tunku Ismail can decline nomination if he wants to. Whatever it is, we want the selection of our chairman based on the voice of the majority,” he said.