KUALA LUMPUR: As expected, Syed Yazid Syed Omar was elected president of the Kuala Lumpur Football Association (KLFA) for the 2024-2028 term during its congress-cum-elections in Cheras today.
Syed Yazid secured 15 votes, narrowly defeating challenger Datuk Abdullah Sani Abdul Hamid, who garnered 12.
The win signals a significant shift in leadership, with many newly appointed executive committee members aligned with Syed Yazid's vision, sidelining prominent figures from Abdullah's camp, including actor and director Datuk Afdlin Shauki Aksan.
Syed Yazid's first priority will be addressing the pressing issues surrounding Super League side KL City, particularly salary arrears that have dominated headlines this year.
"I will continue my fight. As president, it is my responsibility to resolve the salary issues. First, we need to assess the full extent of the debts, including contributions to EPF, Socso, and LHDN," said Syed Yazid.
Commenting on his relationship with KL City chief executive officer Stanley Bernard, Syed Yazid said: "My relationship with Stanley is okay. If there are any concerns, we will address them in the upcoming executive committee meeting.
"I didn't wait until today to start drafting my plans. I've already begun tackling the financial issues, which will be my top priority," added Syed Yazid.
He also shared positive developments regarding potential sponsorships from both government and private sectors.
The election also brought surprises, most notably the defeat of long-serving KLFA secretary-general Nokman Mustaffa, who has held the position since 1999, with only brief interruptions.
Assisting Syed Yazid in his new role are deputy presidents Datuk Kamarudin Hassan and Datuk Seri Wong Yeong Chai, along with vice presidents Datuk Ramlan Shaheani, Nor Asyikin Jaafar, Datuk Sham Shamrat Sen Gupta and Datuk Hisamudin Yahaya.