THE Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) is addressing speculation over its sponsorship after questions arose about Bank Islam’s commitment following the document falsification case involving seven Harimau Malaya heritage players.
FAM acting president Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi said the sponsor had contacted the association and sent an official letter, but stressed that it was only to seek clarification on the situation.
He explained that Bank Islam had chosen to wait until all legal proceedings were fully concluded before making any decision.
“Indeed, when this case occurred, Bank Islam contacted us. It was more about wanting to know what actually happened.
“We have also held a series of meetings with them.
“At this point, Bank Islam will wait for the final decision because the process at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has not been fully concluded.
“That is why I emphasise that we must carry out this process until the end.
“So far, there has been no change with Bank Islam, there is just no final decision yet,” he said.
Yusoff was responding to rumours that the banking institution was preparing to withdraw its sponsorship after Bank Islam’s logo was no longer visible on FAM’s official website.
He said it was normal for sponsors to seek clarity during controversies of this nature, adding that there had been no official move to end the sponsorship.
“It is all more about wanting to know the status. Officially, there is no withdrawal.
“So far, it has only been inquiries about what happened.
“Bank Islam has simply sent an official letter requesting an explanation from FAM,” he said.
Previously, FAM and seven Harimau Malaya heritage players were sanctioned by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) over allegations of document falsification.
The association subsequently brought the matter to CAS, with a ruling expected in March next year.