What TMJ said about the forgery allegations and the fight against FIFA
Why Harimau Malaya must be ready for the 'worst' despite legitimate documents
SHAH ALAM – Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (TMJ) has stepped forward to address the controversy surrounding the Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) ongoing dispute with FIFA over the eligibility of seven so-called ‘heritage players’ in the national football team, Harimau Malaya.
In a press conference held in Subang Jaya on Oct 25, TMJ laid out his stance on the scandal, clarified his role in the national football setup and urged Malaysians to remain united in defending the players and FAM.
The Core of the Controversy
On Sept 26, FIFA handed down heavy sanctions to FAM, suspending seven players for 12 months and imposing a fine of 350,000 Swiss francs (approximately RM1.8 million). Each player also received an individual fine.
The suspended players are:
- Gabriel Felipe Arrocha
- Facundo Garces
- Jon Irazabal
- Hector Hevel
- Rodrigo Holgado
- Imanol Machuca
- Joao Figueiredo
FIFA alleged that forged ancestry documents were submitted to prove the players’ Malaysian heritage during registration for the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.
FAM, however, maintained that it was merely a “technical error” made by an administrative officer, insisting the documents were legitimate and government-approved.
FAM appealed the ruling on Oct 14 and FIFA’s Appeals Committee is expected to deliver its decision on Oct 30.
TMJ: The Players’ Documents Are Legitimate
TMJ stood firm that the players hold valid documents proving their Malaysian heritage.
“Yes, that is my opinion. FAM is still fighting for the rights of the seven players to represent the country because all the documents were properly issued by the government,” he said.
He added that he believed a technical or administrative mistake might have occurred during the submission process, but the legitimacy of the players’ Malaysian ties was beyond question.
“When it comes to legitimacy and integrity, they are Malaysians. That is our sovereignty and diversity and we should not question it,” he stressed.
‘Be Ready for the Worst’ — But Keep Fighting
Despite his confidence in the players’ authenticity, TMJ admitted he doubts FIFA will overturn the decision entirely.
“I do not think FIFA will change its decision. At most, the penalty might be lightened. They could impose fines, deduct points, or suspend the players involved.
“If we believe we are right and have valid documents, we must continue to fight through the proper legal channels, even up to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if necessary,” he said.
‘Ask JPN, Not FAM’ — TMJ on Responsibility
TMJ also emphasised that the National Registration Department (JPN) bears the ultimate responsibility for verifying documents, not FAM.
“That you have to ask JPN. If JPN is satisfied with the documents given by FAM, that is the discretion of JPN. It is up to the government to make an assessment and decide. That is their prerogative, not us.
“There may have been a technical mistake when handing the documents in, but it’s not a forgery,” TMJ clarified. He further stressed that FAM and the players acted in good faith.
‘Everyone Should Take Responsibility’
TMJ openly disagreed with FAM’s decision to suspend its secretary-general Datuk Noor Azman Rahman on Oct 17, arguing that the entire management, including the Harimau Malaya Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and those involved in player signings, should be accountable.
“I do not agree with Noor Azman’s suspension. Many people were involved in signing these players. Everyone should take responsibility, including the CEO and those in management. The association should focus on finding solutions rather than scapegoating individuals. It is not fair for one person to take all the blame,” he said.
Defending His Role and Rejecting Conflict of Interest Claims
Addressing speculation that he had been directly involved in the heritage player recruitment process, TMJ claimed that he merely approved players recommended by football agents.
“There were about 27 or 28 players recommended. Only seven cleared checks by both FAM and JPN. I thought it was good enough and approved it. I did not go through every detail,” he said.
He denied having any conflict of interest, despite being the owner of Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), stating that his role in national football is informal and based on goodwill.
“My involvement is not official. I only assist in securing budgets and improving infrastructure. There is no conflict of interest with the national team. Everyone should be helping. Being involved is already a burden itself,” he said.
‘If Blaming Me Helps You Sleep, I Will Take It’
TMJ appeared unfazed by those who have blamed him for Malaysia’s football woes or accused him of influencing FAM’s decisions.
“I have been blamed for Malaysia’s football problems for 13 years. If blaming me helps you sleep soundly at night, then it’s not a problem. I will take it,” he quipped.
He also told journalists that he was not affected by criticism.
“If I do not keep the engine running, football will fall apart. I have been blamed for 13 years, but I will keep going because my involvement comes from love for the game,” he added.
‘Not Interested’ in Returning as FAM President
TMJ, who served as FAM President from 2017 to 2018, made it clear that he has no intention of returning to the post.
“I was there before. The position requires a full-time commitment and I already have my own official duties. I am not even interested in being there,” he said.
Standing by the Players and Future of Malaysian Football
TMJ called on Malaysians to stand by the national team and the seven players, regardless of their origins.
“They played with sincerity and as a Malaysian football supporter, I will stand by them no matter what,” he said.
He encouraged continued efforts to identify players of Malaysian heritage abroad.
“I do not care where they come from; be it Africa, Antarctica, anywhere. What matters is that they have Malaysian blood and want to represent their country,” he said.
Despite the setback, TMJ urged the nation not to lose sight of long-term football development.
“This is not a failure, it is a hiccup. Every hiccup should not make us stop. We must continue as long as we are right,” he emphasised.
What Happens Next
FIFA is expected to deliver its appeal verdict on Oct 30.
If the decision remains unfavourable, FAM is prepared to escalate the case to CAS.
Until then, the seven players remain suspended and in limbo, with TMJ confirming that no compensation or financial assistance has been offered to them.
“I wish all the best to the national team, FAM and also the players who are not at fault. I hope one day they will be able to represent their country,” he said.
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
