Shahidan pays RM39,000 fine … in coins

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FORMER Perlis Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim today paid his RM39,000 fine to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) … in coins.

The former Perlis FA president, in comments to a newspaper in January, called for FAM to be revamped and to uphold the principles of democracy while expressing regret over FAM’s failure in dealing with match-fixing allegations.

On Feb 20, the FAM Disciplinary Committee found Shahidan guilty of three charges (see below) for breaching Article 88 and 20 of FAM Statutes as well as having intent to tarnish the image of the national body.

He was banned for 30 months and fined RM39,000 and paid that amount today. FAM secretary general Azzuddin Ahmad confirmed the national body received the payment in coins.

Article 88 of the FAM Statutes forbids officials, coaches and players from speaking on policy matters without leave from FAM.

At that time, Shahidan was the second State president to be handed a 30-month ban in as many years. Kelantan FA president Tan Sri Annuar Musa was handed a similar sentence last April after breaching Article 88 after criticising the national team’s performance.

Earlier this month, Johor FA president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim became the third victim as he was handed a six-month suspension and fined RM18,000 when he too criticised FAM for not taking stern action to curb match fixing in the country and for not upgrading the standard of refereeing in the country.

Shahidan’s charge sheet and punishment

1. Giving a press statement on FAM administration matters without permission – RM20,000 + RM1,000 (for insulting the committee with an incomplete response letter).

2. Intentions to tarnish FAM’s image – RM10,000 and 24-month suspension

3. Questioning FAM decision – RM 8,000 and six-month suspension.