KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Sept 27. 2025 – Shockwaves rippled through the football community as FIFA slapped fines and suspensions on Malaysia’s heritage players, raising questions about documentation and credibility in what was once celebrated as a “tiger-skinned” display on the pitch.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution emphasized that citizenship processes, including for those claiming descent, are conducted with utmost scrutiny, adhering strictly to legal provisions under Article 19(1) of the Federal Constitution. “All documents are verified, backgrounds checked, and decisions made meticulously,” he said.
According to Utusan Malaysia, FIFA uncovered forged documents in the registration of Malaysia’s heritage players, leading to severe penalties:
– The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) was fined RM1.8 million.
– Seven heritage players face a 12-month suspension from all international activities.
– The case has been referred to FIFA’s Football Tribunal for further action.
The affected players are:
1. Facundo Tomás Garcés
2. Gabriel Felipe Arrocha (Gabriel Palmero)
3. Rodrigo Julián Holgado
4. Imanol Javier Machuca
5. João Vitor Brandão Figueiredo
6. Jon Irazábal Iraurgui
7. Héctor Alejandro Hevel Serrano
In a significant development, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) announced it will liaise with FIFA to obtain full details of the case. The MACC aims to ensure no elements of corruption, abuse of power, or document forgery are involved in the management of heritage player registrations. “If evidence of criminal activity under Malaysian law is found, action will be taken without compromise,” an MACC spokesperson stated.
The Home Ministry reiterated that all citizenship matters are handled lawfully, transparently, and in accordance with the Federal Constitution. However, it clarified that its jurisdiction covers only citizenship status, while player eligibility in international competitions falls under FIFA and sports associations’ purview.
As the Home Minister succinctly put it: “The Home Ministry doesn’t manage football. We handle citizenship. Our actions are strictly based on the Federal Constitution’s legal provisions.”
Source : Saif Squad