Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution stated that the issue concerning the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the seven 'naturalized players' has now become a matter between FAM and FIFA, and the government cannot interfere with FAM’s internal affairs so as not to violate FIFA statutes and risk disciplinary action against FAM.
He said that any act of government interference in FAM’s internal affairs could be seen as government intervention, which would violate the principle of autonomy for sports associations as stipulated in the FIFA statutes, potentially resulting in disciplinary action or suspension of FAM’s membership.
He emphasized that, at present, everything must comply with FIFA regulations.
He stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs has clarified that the citizenship application process for the naturalized players was strictly conducted according to Article 19 of the Federal Constitution, the 1964 Citizenship Regulations, and the standard operating procedures of the National Registration Department.
“This matter is now between FAM and FIFA.”
He also said that the government will continue to monitor developments and is always ready to cooperate with relevant sports bodies when required.
The Home Minister made these remarks via a written reply in Parliament to Senator Baharuddin, who had inquired about the government's follow-up actions after FIFA took disciplinary measures over allegations that Malaysia was involved in falsifying documents for seven naturalized foreign players.