KUALA LUMPUR: Sports analyst Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli believes the FA of Malaysia (FAM) must take the fans' boycott of the Merdeka Tournament, which starts on Wednesday, seriously.
Pekan urged FAM to take a moment to truly understand why fans have decided to stay away from the tournament, a move which is 'unprecedented' in the history of Malaysian football.
"The fans have repeatedly voiced the same grievances and dissatisfaction. FAM appears to lack awareness," said Pekan today.
"This boycott is a manifestation of the fans' deep frustration and their disillusionment. They don't want to keep hearing excuses.
"The internal issues at FAM have reached a point where fans are willing to forego supporting the national team. This is unprecedented."
Malaysian fans are unhappy with FAM for a number of issues including Kim Pan Gon's decision to quit as national coach before his contract expired.
As of Saturday, less than 1,000 tickets have been sold for the Merdeka Tournament which will be held at National Stadium Bukit Jalil.
Malaysia will face the Philippines (world No. 147) on Wednesday. Defending champions Tajikistan will play against Lebanon on the same day.