KUALA LUMPUR: We often talk about the need to raise the standard of the national football team, but how about improving the quality of the FA of Malaysia (FAM)'s leadership?
This was raised by former FAM head of marketing Sayf Ismail who bluntly said: "There's a need for a higher standard for the FAM presidency.
"It's time we moved beyond politics and empty promises. Anyone running for president must show they have a real plan, not just words. A clear roadmap for reform should be the new standard," he he said in an exclusive interview with Timesport today.
He challenged those eyeing the FAM presidency to present a clear, actionable manifesto to improve Malaysian football.
With incumbent Tan Sri Hamidin Amin stepping down, a new FAM president will be elected for the 2025-29 term at the 61st FAM Congress on Feb 15.
Sayf said that a competitive election, not just an uncontested appointment, is essential for the health of the national body and the development of Malaysian football.
"Leadership doesn't have to come from within the existing system. The presidency should be open to those with corporate experience and a fresh perspective. We need leaders who can manage stakeholders transparently and align their agenda with the nation's goals," he said.
Sayf, who is a corporate trainer in the field of sustainability and environmental, social and governance, is also an Adjunct Professor at Universiti Malaya.
Sayf is also offering his candidacy for the FAM president's post as a "wildcard option".
"I've worked within FAM, I understand its challenges and I know its potential. But this isn't just about me. It's about setting a benchmark. Let anyone who wants to lead Malaysian football step up with their own vision. Let the affiliates and the nation decide," he said.
One of the key elements of Sayf's vision is ensuring that FAM's affiliates receive an annual RM200,000 grant to help develop grassroots football. He believes the funding should depend on affiliates organising structured leagues for boys and girls across various age groups.
"During my time at FAM (2014-2017), I saw the gaps in our football pyramid. We need a clear pathway for young talent from grassroots to professional levels. By providing affiliates with the right resources and objectives, we can build a sustainable system that benefits the entire football ecosystem.
"This isn't just about giving out money, it's about accountability. Affiliates must deliver results, and with the right sponsors, we can scale these initiatives significantly," said Sayf.
In his manifesto, Sayf proposes a five-pillar framework to reform FAM and tackle key issues in Malaysian football. Transparency is at the heart of his plan, with detailed financial reports, including the disclosure of leaders' salaries, to build trust and ensure accountability.
He also stressed the need to rebuild Malaysia's football pyramid by collaborating with affiliates to create clear pathways for young players, offering structured opportunities for them to progress from grassroots to professional levels.
Strengthening the domestic league is another priority, and Sayf is proposing closer alignment between FAM and Malaysian Football League to implement initiatives like overseas loan programmes to expose young players to international standards.
Sayf also highlighted the importance of balancing the naturalisation of foreign players with the development of local talent. He envisions a system that increases grassroots participation, ensuring homegrown players remain central to Malaysia's footballing future.
He said there is a need to rebuild trust in FAM, positioning football as a unifying force in the country that goes beyond on-field performance, reflecting Malaysia's diverse identity and shared aspirations.