KUALA LUMPUR: As the search for the next FA of Malaysia (FAM) president heats up, football icon Datuk Jamal Nasir offers a passionate take on the qualities essential for leading the nation's football governing body and reflects on the legacy of past presidents.
In an exclusive interview with Timesport, Jamal stressed that sincerity and a deep, unyielding love for the sport must define whoever takes on the role.
He said that leadership without genuine intent would fail to elevate Malaysian football.
"If you don't have sincerity and honesty to improve football, the sport will stagnate. The president must put their heart and soul into the task, otherwise, there's no point," said Jamal.
Jamal said that a president's responsibilities go beyond managing the senior national team. Building a robust system for grassroots development is paramount to achieving long-term success.
"It's about creating a system that nurtures grassroots football and develops players across all levels. Without a comprehensive vision, we'll never reach the heights we aspire to," said Jamal.
However, Jamal believes that passion alone isn't enough. The role demands a leader who wields influence and is capable of mobilising resources and garnering support from all quarters.
"To lead FAM successfully, you need someone who can negotiate with the government, secure resources, and persuade stakeholders to invest in football. Without that strength, it's difficult to bring about meaningful change," said Jamal.
Jamal said the late Sultan of Pahang, Paduka Ayahanda Sultan Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah Sultan Abu Bakar, was the greatest president the association has seen so far.
He recounted the Sultan's selflessness, noting how he personally financed projects and sought sponsorships, including a landmark RM40 million contribution from Dunhill during his tenure.
"Almarhum Sultan Ahmad Shah was remarkable. He never used FAM's funds for his travels or projects, instead, he injected his own money and worked tirelessly to bring in sponsorships. That's true leadership, dedication and focus on football above all else," said Jamal.
Jamal also shared stories of the late Sultan's sacrifices, from bonuses paid out of his own pocket to his unwavering commitment to the sport. For Jamal, those were Malaysia's golden years, an era where football flourished under steady and passionate leadership.
Acknowledging the evolving challenges facing FAM today, Jamal stressed the need for transparency and accountability to rebuild trust and unity within the organization.
"Today, we face internal divisions and experimental approaches that haven't yielded consistent results. Football isn't going anywhere without a clear direction.
"When decisions are transparent, people will have confidence in the organisation. That's how we attract the right people and resources to move forward," said Jamal.
When asked about potential candidates for the top post, Jamal refrained from endorsing anyone outright but admits the complexities of the current football and political landscape.
"It's a tough call. There are power dynamics at play and candidates need to show they have what it takes to navigate these challenges while keeping football at the forefront," said Jamal.
FAM Vice President Datuk Joehari Ayub and former FAM exco member Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar were reported to be in the running for the presidency, with the Congress set to vote on Feb 15 for the 2025–2029 term.
Sabah FA has already declared support for Joehari, while Shahril, who initially expressed readiness to contest, has since withdrawn from the race.
Additionally, calls have emerged for current president Tan Sri Hamidin Amin to reconsider his decision not to seek re-election.
Yet, among fans and football critics, former FAM president Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim remains the favorite. The Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) owner is seen as a transformative figure, with his involvement in Harimau Malaya sparking optimism for a football revolution.