PETALING JAYA (7 April 2012) – His Royal Highness Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, the Deputy President of the FA of Malaysia (FAM) has made a statement with regards to the recent two and a half year ban handed to Tan Sri Annuar Musa, the deputy president of the FAM, by the Disciplinary Committee.
“In light of recent events, specifically pertaining to FAM’s Disciplinary Committee’s decision against Tan Sri Annuar Musa, I would like to express my regrets over the turn of events.
As I have been overseas while this was taking place, I am not privy to the details of the alleged incident or the hearing on the 4th April 2012. To clarify, please note that the statement that was made by me on the 4th February should not be interpreted as a directive but rather an advise to all officials in FAM to respect our constitution and ensure that we adhere to the proper regulations clearly stated.
However, I am sure that the Committee has thoroughly investigated the charges and meted out the appropriate disciplinary action in a transparent manner and in accordance to FAM statutes.
I have faith that due process has been followed.
However, I do sympathise with the former deputy president as I am sure his remarks were made in the heat of the moment that sometimes overtake us all. Passion for great football can and does get even the best of us.
Perhaps, it might be time for us to pursue a review of what might not be in the best interest in the future of football development. As such, I offer myself as a mediator to end the impasse and mend any possible rift this unfortunate incident might have created.
We must acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of Tan Sri Annuar in the development of Malaysian football albeit Kelantan football. We must also examine if this decision will dismantle the good work Tan Sri Annuar has put into Kelantan football and if Kelantan FA will suffer its repercussion.
It is my hope that we can look at the mitigating factors and resolve this amicably for the greater good of Malaysian football. Therefore, we must look beyond this and focus on what is truly important – the progress of Malaysian football.
The attention should be on football and football only.”
Yh Dato’ Zainal Abidin Abu Bakar
Private Secretary
Office of HRH Prince Abdullah Shah
