A local club owner and his winning formula

IT is a common sight to see the owner of Johor Darul Ta'zim FC (JDT), HRH Major General Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Crown Prince of Johor, in photos and videos posted on the club's social media pages. 

It's easy to dismiss them as publicity stunts or vanity shots ─ the same way I've seen sports officials rush into camera frames on more than one occasion — but these are not just photo opportunities for HRH Tunku Ismail, or TMJ, as he is commonly known.

Actually, TMJ plays a pivotal role in the running of the Southern Tigers like a well-oiled machine. In fact, it wouldn't be too much of a stretch to say that the Crown Prince of Johor is one of the most ─ if not the most ─ hands-on football owners in the world.

While there are qualified individuals put in charge of various aspects of the club — technical, commercial, media and so on — TMJ is constantly in the loop and is very much involved in the decision-making process to ensure that high standards (demands) are consistently met.

Along with the experience of building a successful club since 2013, passion for the sport and knowledge of its intricacies ─ stemming predominantly from the various football personalities engaged, countless football books read, and numerous foreign clubs visited ─ has worked well in JDT’s favour.

These virtues are often lacking amongst the upper echelons of Malaysian football administrations, leading to plenty of little Napoleons running the show.

JDT has little room for this sort of leaders; everything is conducted above board as utmost priority is given to the club’s varied interests.

As a result of HRH Tunku Ismail's active involvement in various aspects of the club, frankly speaking, there simply isn’t any other way to run things at JDT.

From striking commercial deals that ensure the smooth running of media operations to observing training sessions, motivating staff ─ including players  ─  and even, overseeing the design of the facilities, TMJ's takes a keen interest in it all. 

His involvement also keeps the club on its toes, thereby ensuring that steps are constantly being taken to propel JDT forward. 

While TMJ has often shown the human touch, everyone at this club is aware that commitment, dedication and passion is a prerequisite for membership.

Well, the culmination of all this is nothing short of spectacular: 16 trophies in eight years, world-class facilities ─ which were previously thought of as mere fantasy ─ a recognised international brand and the first full-blown Malaysian football club that’s complete in every way. ─ The Vibes, 11 January, 2021

Former journalist Vijhay is Head of Content at Johor Darul Ta'zim FC following stints with Malay Mail, Sports247.my, FourFourTwo Malaysia and FOX Malaysia. You may have also heard him on BFM Football or watched him on Media Prima's football programmes. Vijhay can be reached at @vijhayvick on Twitter