February 6 – Crime-busting police forces in Malaysia have been directed to flush out matchfixing among players, coaches and the management of league teams.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi says rigging has to be stopped immediately with offenders brought to court.
“As Home Minister, I am heeding the call of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim … to stem the greed of match fixing culprits in the country’s football arena,” he said.
Meantime, the head of the Malaysian FA’s referees committee Subkhiddin Mohd Salleh stressed that he will not compromise with match officials who are involved in match-fixing.
Subkhiddin said he is willing to work hand-in-hand with authorities such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to ensure officials do not get involved in activities which could tarnish the reputation of the sport.
“I believe our referees are not influenced by bookies,” said Subkhiddin. “I hope they will be judged in a smart and mature manner based on suitable criteria and not by making assumptions.”
“At the moment, I see that there are a lot of comments which are focused on taking action against a second or third party. Maybe it would be better if the authorities were more proactive in taking action to eradicate the source.”
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