Ex-Rhinos Matlan calls for less reliance on govt
KOTA KINABALU: Former Rhinos star Matlan Marjan is calling for change to reduce Sabah Football Association's reliance on the government to run its operations.
Matlan, who became a house hold name in the 'Semi-Pro' days of Malaysian football when it was operated from back in the late 80's to early 90's, also supported SAFA's move to stage its Annual General Meeting earlier than scheduled, in order to hold elections for the positions of president, deputy presidents and vice president.
He urged SAFA to come up with appropriate candidates who are in-line with the association's direction in terms of operations, vision and objectives.
"I think this is very important so that its (SAFA's) operations can be continuous without interruption or being halted.
"For example, after the last general elections in May, I understand that funds for football were temporarily halted due to the association's heavy reliance on government-linked companies (GLC) for funding and operations.
"I think it is high time that we move this association forward by exploring new ideas of development. We should do this foremost by bringing in new faces to the administration, "Matlan said in a statement here, yesterday.
As for the positions of president and deputy president, Matlan felt they would be suited for some who were already currently in the Supreme Council line-up.
"For me, I think Dato' Aziz Jamman would be a suitable candidate for president and so too is Alijus Sipil for deputy president. I think Datuk Aziz and Alijus would make a fine partnership to lead SAFA towards change and positive development in future," he said.
"I don't think we will have much change if we hold the elections but allow the same old faces to take control of the association.
"And so I call on the delegates to make change for the sake of the future of football in Sabah," he said.
Towards this end, Matlan said those of the old administration who had contributed to the development and well-being of football up to now, would always be appreciated for their contribution.
However, he urged them to step down to allow a new leadership to take over.