KUALA LUMPUR – Taken aback by Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim’s decision to take a step back from the daily affairs of Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), national head coach Kim Pan-gon has urged the former Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president to reconsider.
“I hope Tunku Ismail reconsiders his decision. To me, it will be a big loss to Malaysian football if he decides to stay away from the game.
“In less than a decade, he has taken JDT to greater heights owing to his unbridled passion. At this point in time, Malaysian football needs Tunku Ismail,” said Kim.
Prior to his arrival in Kuala Lumpur, Kim was fully aware of Tunku Ismail’s huge influence over the game in Malaysia.
“He has transformed JDT’s fortunes to such a level that the club has qualified to play in the Asian Champions’ League.
“Thanks to Tunku Ismail’s contribution, JDT has earned recognition all over Asia, and this has helped raise the bar for other clubs in Malaysia.
“Tunku Ismail’s winning mentality is crucial to effect changes into the local game,” said Kim.
Kim said Tunku Ismail needs to stay not only for the sake of his club but for the interest of the national team as well.
“Under his charge, JDT has provided more than 15 players to the national team, and in fact, more good players are coming through the ranks.
“Tunku Ismail has always been supportive of the national team from the very beginning, and we really appreciate this gesture.
“Even before my arrival, I was fully aware that JDT’s training facilities and infrastructure are of European standards.
“We appreciate Tunku Ismail’s offer for Harimau Malaya to train in Johor. With the infrastructure available, those who train there can benefit from state-of-the-art facilities. I personally see this as another contribution of JDT to Malaysian football,” he said.
Kim added that JDT’s performance has helped raise the profile of Malaysian football through their football development and branding, which should be made as an example for other local football clubs. – The Vibes, June 10, 2022
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