Naturalization Scandal

Unsurprisingly, the scandal rocked Malaysian football and was considered a major embarrassment for Malaysia.

In an official statement from FIFA's Judicial Body, Friday (26/9/2025), FAM was found to have violated Article 22 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code regarding document forgery and false statements. FIFA did not specify what type of documents were forged in the naturalization process of the seven players.

They are Facundo Tomas Garces (born in Argentina), Gabriel Palmero (Spain), Rodrigo Julian Holgado (Argentina), Imanol Javier Machuca (Argentina), Joao Figueiredo (Brazil), Jon Irazabal (Spain), and Hector Alejandro Hevel (Netherlands). According to reports from several Malaysian media outlets, some of these naturalized players have Malaysian ancestry.

The players also strengthened Malaysia as they defeated Vietnam 4-0 in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifying match on June 10, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur. "Harimau Malaya" is now at the top of Group F with a perfect record from two matches. Only the group champion qualifies for the Asian Cup.

In a statement, the FAM denied any wrongdoing in the players' naturalization process. They stated that they had followed FIFA guidelines. FAM will appeal FIFA's decision (Kompas.id, September 27, 2025).

In addition to a fine of 350,000 Swiss francs or approximately Rp 7.32 billion imposed on FAM, the seven players also received sanctions in the form of a 12-month ban from all football activities and a fine of 2,000 Swiss francs each, equivalent to around Rp 41.8 million.

There is still no clarity regarding the fate of the match results against Vietnam. However, learning from the case of Timor Leste, which was banned from participating in the 2023 Asian Cup due to issues with player document validity, a similar sanction could befall Malaysia.

The scandal should certainly serve as a lesson for Indonesia, which also implements the same policy, namely naturalization to boost football achievements. Currently, naturalized players dominate the Garuda squad. In the list of 28 players called up by coach Patrick Kluivert for the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, there are 20 naturalized players.

The naturalization process carried out by PSSI has also sparked controversy. On one hand, it has proven capable of enhancing performance, but on the other hand, it is seen as prioritizing shortcuts rather than fostering development. The issue is not only about the legitimacy of the players but also about the federation that can be considered to neglect its duty to develop local football talent.

We certainly do not want a naturalization scandal to occur in Indonesia. Let us not risk Indonesia's integrity as a nation—beyond just football—for the sake of hollow victories.