KUALA LUMPUR: The FA of Malaysia (FAM) has denied reports that it is demanding over RM3 million in compensation from Kim Pan Gon for alleged breach of contract after the South Korean announced his sudden resignation as national head coach on Tuesday.
FAM deputy president Datuk Yusoff Mahadi refuted such talks today and said the national body and Pan Gon had parted company amicably.
Yusoff went on to say that Pan Gon has contributed significantly to Malaysian football and helped raise Harimau Malaya's profile.
He credited Pan Gon with playing a key role in Malaysia's qualification for the Asian Cup in January in Qatar on merit for the first time in 43 years.
"Normally, contractual obligations between employers and employees dictate compensation when contracts are terminated or employees are dismissed, in accordance with labour laws.
"However, in Pan Gon's case, both parties parted ways amicably, with FAM recognising his efforts in enhancing the quality of Harimau Malaya over the past two and a half years.
"We respect Pan Gon's decision and appreciate his contributions to the team," said Yusoff.
Earlier there were talks on social media that Pan Gon would have to compensate FAM with RM3 million for terminaitng his contract (which was to run until the end of next year) prematurely.
According to records, the salaries of senior coaches of the national men's football team can amount to six figures.
An assistant coach's salary (according to their ranking in the team) ranges from US$5,000 to US$10,000 to US$15,000. A head coach's salary is said to be more than the others by about US$20,000.