KUALA LUMPUR: Change is on the horizon for the FA of Malaysia (FAM) as its congress and elections for the 2025-2029 term are scheduled for Feb 15.
However, the suspensions of Perlis FA (PFA) and Kelantan FA (KAFA) leave only 18 of the 20 affiliates to determine the future direction of the national body.
On Dec 4, FAM suspended PFA for failing to comply with FIFA's directive to settle outstanding salary arrears and contract compensation owed to former PFA director of football, Matt Holland.
FAM also suspended KAFA on Tuesday due to irregularities in its congress and elections earlier this year.
The national body has ordered KAFA to reconvene its congress and elections.
Sports observer Sadek Mustaffa said the suspension of KAFA appeared to be typical drama before FAM's congress.
"FAM seems proactive in suspending its affiliates, and for me, this is a usual drama that unfolds before elections in any organisation," said Sadek.
"I believe the affiliates' voices must be heard, and they should be allowed to choose a leader who can uplift and improve their situation. The FAM congress and elections are the platform for the affiliates to make changes."
He added: "But for any organisation, the constitution must be respected, and KAFA needs to quickly sort out its issues, so it can make its voice heard in the FAM congress."