With Persis Solo and Persik Kediri experience, Kim Swee returns to revitalise local talent
His international successes continued as he led Malaysia to a silver medal at the 2017 SEA Games, reached the quarter-finals of the 2018 AFC Under-23 Championship and qualified for the knockout stages of the 2018 Asian Games.
KUALA LUMPUR – The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has expressed full confidence in the credibility of former national head coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee to revitalie the nation’s football grassroots.
This follows the official appointment of Kim Swee, 55, as the new Technical Director of the National Football Development Programme (NFDP), effective Dec 1. He replaced Oscar Francisco Gonzalez.
According to FAM, the decision was finalised by the NFDP Technical Committee, chaired by FAM Deputy President Datuk S. Sivasundaram, in collaboration with the National Sports Council (NSC).
“Kim Swee, who also serves as the Malaysian Football Coaches Association President(PJBM), is regarded as the most suitable candidate to fill the vacancy given his illustrious reputation and extensive experience,” the statement read.
His journey in coaching and technical development began at the Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) and included leading the Harimau Muda squad, eventually culminating in his tenure as the Harimau Malaya head coach in 2016.
Kim Swee’s storied career includes guiding his teams to Youth Cup victory in 2007 and the Premier League title in 2009.
He famously made history by clinching the gold medal at the 2011 SEA Games and winning the Merdeka Tournament in 2013.
His international successes continued as he led Malaysia to a silver medal at the 2017 SEA Games, reached the quarter-finals of the 2018 AFC Under-23 Championship and qualified for the knockout stages of the 2018 Asian Games.
In terms of technical administration, Kim Swee is no stranger to the backroom, having previously served as the FAM Youth Unit Head, FAM Assistant Technical Director and FAM Technical Director in 2021.
At the club level, the former 1990s midfielder coached Melaka and Sabah FC before a stint in Indonesia with Persis Solo and Persik Kediri from 2024 to 2025.
“It is hoped that Kim Swee will play a pivotal role as the new leader of the NFDP, ensuring better planning and implementation of programmes for the future of national football,” the statement added.
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