The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed a sweeping restructuring within its national football setup on June 18, 2026.
Several high-profile management and coaching personnel have left their roles through mutual contract terminations.
National team Chief Executive Officer Robert Douglas Friend departed effective June 1, 2026. He was appointed in January 2025 to oversee management operations.
Senior national team head coach Peter Cklamovski, along with technical staff Matthew Smith and Seiya Imazaki, exited effective June 16, 2026.
Under-23 head coach Nafuzi Zain and goalkeeping coach Mohd Yazid Mohd Yassin left their positions effective June 15, 2026.
The changes come as the senior national squad slipped to 136th in the FIFA world rankings.
FAM had targeted breaking into the top 100 following the appointments of Friend and Cklamovski last year.
In an official press release, FAM acknowledged the departures and thanked the outgoing personnel for their dedication.
"FAM respects the decision made and extends its highest appreciation and gratitude for all their service, commitment and contributions throughout their time with the national team," the association stated.
FAM added that it has initiated steps to secure new leadership to sustain the development and stability of the national team programs.
Further management updates are promised in due course.
Outgoing Coaches Share Statements
Following the announcement, Cklamovski issued a personal statement detailing his departure and expressing optimism for Malaysian football.
"Today, I announce my departure as Head Coach of the Malaysian National Team," said Cklamovski.
The Australian tactician noted that he decided to step down after concluding it was the appropriate moment to embrace fresh professional opportunities.
"I would like to sincerely thank all involved for the support and now for understanding my decision that the time has come for me to take on a new challenge," he said.
Cklamovski commended the collective effort of the squad and support personnel during his tenure.
"My deepest appreciation goes to the players and staff who gave everything throughout this journey.
Every training session, every match and every moment together was driven by the same objective to make Malaysia proud," he said.
He emphasized that the passion of local football enthusiasts and the innate skill of Malaysian players are valuable characteristics that the sport must preserve.
"Malaysian football has incredible potential.
The passion of the supporters, the talent of the players, and the love for the game in this country are things that must always be protected," Cklamovski said.
He added: "My hope is that Malaysian football continues to grow, with decisions always guided by what is best for the game, the players, and the future of the nation."
Cklamovski concluded by offering his best wishes to the domestic football community as he prepares for his next venture.
"I leave wishing nothing but success for Malaysian football," he said.
Former Under-23 head coach Nafuzi Zain expressed that leaving the youth national team setup was a challenging choice due to his deep bond with the development squad.
"Thank you to everyone involved in my career journey.
Especially to the management, support staff, players and supporters who are always behind me and give me unwavering support and enthusiasm," said Nafuzi.
