SHAH ALAM – Johor Crown Prince (TMJ) Tunku Mahkota Ismail has expressed frustration over what he perceives as a backward mindset among certain individuals involved in the development of Malaysian football.
In a direct post on X, the owner of Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) wrote, "Everyone talks as if we are World Cup champions. They want change but still have a stone age mentality."
His comments come amid an ongoing debate about the future direction of Malaysia’s football, especially regarding the inclusion of foreign expertise and the use of heritage players in the national squad, Harimau Malaya.
Tunku Ismail compared Malaysia’s football progress with that of its regional neighbours.
"Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam are far ahead. They have upgraded football facilities and brought in foreign expertise. We only talk,” he said.
The statement appears to be a response to recent criticisms from football legend Datuk Santokh Singh.
Santokh had voiced concerns over the Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) decision to bring in foreign professionals, arguing that it marginalises local talent.
He also expressed reservations about the growing presence of heritage players in the national team, describing it as an easy path to success.