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The Star
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Ex-PFAM boss Safee keeping door open for possible future lead role in FAM
PETALING JAYA: Former international Safee Sali has his eyes set on leading Malaysian football from the top – by becoming the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president one day. The former national striker officially stepped down as president of the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM) yesterday, ending a near seven-year tenure marked by strong advocacy for player welfare. For now, the 41-year-old Safee will shift his focus to his broadcasting career – but made it clear that his passion for football development is far from over. Having served as PFAM president since 2019, Safee's third term tenure was supposed to end in January 2026, but he has had a change of heart. Ready to go: Safee Sali officially stepped down as president of the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia yesterday. 'It was not an easy decision, I believe it is time for me to step aside and allow the younger generation to take the lead,' he said in a heartfelt statement. 'I love this game, but I have to let go, for now.' Safee disclosed that his perspective shifted after a recent trip to Japan, where he observed their national body being led by former national players, young, energetic, and deeply connected to the modern game. The Japan Football Association are currently led by former international footballer Tsuneyasu Miyamoto. 'When I saw how the FA in Japan are led by former national players, it really resonated with me,' said Safee. 'Maybe it's time for me to write another chapter. Maybe even consider the presidency of FAM one day. 'Only footballers truly understand what it takes to run this sport. 'I've left the door open for a possible leadership role in FAM as my unique blend of on-field experience and off-field administration can come in handy. 'It's not impossible. If I ever get the chance to do something bigger for football, I'll be ready. 'I believe I can bring value. I've been through everything, both as a player and a leader. I'm looking forward to what's next.' Safee said he has spoken with PFAM chief executive officer Izham Ismail and proposed that the current deputy president Razman Roslan take over on an interim basis until new elections are held at the end of the year. 'I want to give space for new faces, players who are passionate and serious about shaping this body,' he said. 'It's a great opportunity for the younger generation to learn about their rights and how to manage a professional football organisation.' Under Safee's leadership, PFAM grew in visibility and influence, championing players welfare, raising awareness on contractual rights, and strengthening the voice of footballers across Malaysia. Though stepping down, Safee made it clear he was not stepping away from the game entirely. Now more involved in broadcasting and commercial ventures, he remains active in the football industry. 'I'm really focused on the commercial side now and enjoying broadcasting work. But my passion for the game hasn't faded. 'I want to bring my experience, from playing to management, and use it to contribute more meaningfully to Malaysian football in the future.'
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Safee Sali steps down as PFAM president
KUALA LUMPUR: Former national striker Safee Sali announced his resignation as president of the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM) today, marking the end of his leadership since 2019. In a heartfelt two-minute video shared on Instagram, the 41-year-old said the decision was not an easy one, but it was time to make way for new, younger leadership. "I would like to wish everyone a blessed Awal Muharram. Hopefully, the new year brings strength and prosperity for a better life. "Secondly, this will be my final week as president of PFAM. It's not an easy decision, but I believe it's time to give space to the younger generation to take over." Safee said he hopes his departure will open the door for fresh perspectives and allow Malaysian football to grow with the players at the forefront. "Players are the key to moving football forward in Malaysia. I hope the new leadership will introduce innovative ideas and implement the necessary changes. I wish them the best of luck," he said. "My job is done. From 2019 to the present, I would like to thank all PFAM staff, especially Izham Ismail (PFAM CEO), and the players who have supported me. Good luck in the future, the future is yours." In a separate caption accompanying the video, Safee wrote: "Today, I officially announce my resignation as president of PFAM. It has been a fulfilling journey working alongside passionate individuals. I will continue to support PFAM in a new way and am excited to see what the future holds. Thank you all for the great memories." He also attached a statement thanking PFAM for the opportunity to serve, and expressed his belief in the potential of the next generation. "This decision did not come easily, but I believe it is time for me to step aside and allow the younger generation to take the lead," he said. "I am confident that the future leaders of our association will bring new energy and vision to our shared passion for the game. I look forward to seeing the positive changes and am excited about what the future holds for football and the young talents it represents." Safee, who enjoyed a storied career at the club and international level, was appointed president of PFAM in 2019. His tenure saw greater advocacy for player welfare and efforts to professionalise support structures within the local football scene.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Sport
- The Sun
Safee steps down as PFAM president
FORMER national striker Safee Sali has resigned as president of the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM). Safee said it was not an easy decision to make, but he believed the time had come for him to step aside for the younger generation to lead the association. 'I firmly believe that introducing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas is vital for the continued growth and development of football on a global scale. 'It has been an honour to serve in this capacity, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together during my tenure. My responsibility as PFAM president, which began in 2019, has come to an end today,' he said in a statement on his Instagram account today. Safee expressed confidence that the new leaders of the association will inject fresh energy into the game and that he looks forward to seeing the positive changes they will make.
Straits Times
24-04-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Malaysia's sports minister demands overhaul
KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia's Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has urged the country's soccer authorities to undertake a sweeping overhaul of the sport's ecosystem, emphasising comprehensive solutions rather than piecemeal fixes are required to address any problems. "The issues in our football scene require more than just reactive measures. It's time we look at the bigger picture and work together to rebuild a healthier and more sustainable football environment," she told local media on Wednesday. Yeoh did not specify what issues she was referring to, but Malaysian soccer has suffered financial hardships in recent years, leading to some clubs being penalised, relegated or withdrawing from the league. The Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM) states that many professional clubs struggle to pay salaries on time. The minister said she has asked the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) to perform an assessment on Malaysian football. "They have given me a report and we will discuss it with FAM (Football Association of Malaysia). We can't look at one case only," she was reported as saying by Malaysia's Star newspaper. "We have to see it holistically. In our future meeting, we will discuss with FAM on how to improve the current ecosystem. Not just at the national level but we want to see improvements in these clubs." The FAM did not immediately respond to Reuters calls seeking comments. REUTERS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
