In TMJ we trust
The arrival of Tunku Mahkota Johor (TMJ) Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim marks a new chapter in Malaysia’s bid to revive the dwindling standard of the game. The million-dollar question is can Tunku Ismail undo the wrongs and fix the rot in the system which has led to the downfall of the sport for more than 30 years?
Starsport’s ERIC SAMUEL looks at FIVE major issues Tunku Ismail must tackle in order to save Malaysian football.
JOHOR BARU: The “Father of Johor Football” Datuk Suleiman Mohd Noor believes Tunku Mahkota Johor (TMJ) Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim has the leadership qualities to turn Malaysian football around.
The 88-year-old former vicepresident of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) said Tunku Ismail is capable of reviving Harimau Malaysia from their deep slumber.
“He (Tunku Ismail) meets all the criteria to change the fortunes of our football and national team. Tunku Ismail is a born leader and has the vision to see what is required to help the sport in the country,” said veteran Suleiman yesterday.
Suleiman, a pioneer in Malaysian football, had served under four FAM presidents – Tunku Abdul Rahman (1958-1974), Tun Abdul Razak (197576), Tan Sri Hamzah Abu Samah (1976-1983) and Sultan Ahmad Shah (1984-2014).
On TMJ’s task ahead, Suleiman said it would not be easy to make an immediate impact and see overnight results. He said the FAM and their affiliates must work closely with Tunku Ismail to execute his vision and plans.
“Fans should be patient and continue to support Tunku Ismail if they want to see positive changes,” said Suleiman, who also pointed out that there were similarities between Tunku Ismail and Tunku Abdul Rahman as both men were leaders that were able to make people listen to them and carry out their instructions.
“Tunku Ismail has the financial resources, as well as outside connections to bring experts to benefit Malaysia.
“Secondly, I believe all those ‘kaki pengampu’ (yes-men) within FAM will have to go. They will not bring anything on the table for Tunku Ismail. All they do is make some amendments to certain rules within FAM, which have become outdated,” he said.
Suleiman believes Tunku Ismail will be just as successful in the FAM as he is with Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT).
He said JDT were a fine example of how good planning and vision by Tunku Ismail brought the club international fame.
“Football in Johor was in the doldrums before Tunku Ismail took over some five years ago.
“Now, JDT have achieved tremendous success, winning major trophies every season and Tunku Ismail is able to replicate this in the FAM if he can get similar support from everyone,” he said.