National football squad now known as 'Harimau Malaysia'

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) today announced “Harimau Malaysia” as the national football squad’s new name effective immediately.

FAM President, Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah said the new name shall portray the national team which belongs to all Malaysians, including those in Sabah and Sarawak.

“FAM feels 'Harimau Malaya' is no longer suitable in view of the fact the word Malaya itself is not used widely in the country after the formation of Malaysia in 1963. I hope the new name better relfthat the national team belongs to all Malaysians.

“But I don't want just a name change, the players must have a new spirit to seek success...a Harimau Malaysia which is more fearsome and can devour its opponents, at least in Southeast Asia," he said at a ceremony to introduce the team's sponsors.

He also hoped that the squad which received its new coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee officially on Jan 18, will not repeat their disgraceful performance of the past.

Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin last year suggested ‘Harimau Malaysia’ moniker to be used by the national squad over ‘Harimau Malaya’ which isolate fans from Sabah and Sarawak.

FAM also launched a contest to create a new logo for Harimau Malaysia which is open to public of Malaysian nationality in order to celebrate the national’s team rebranding.

The winners will stand a chance to win RM10,000 cash prize and to be with the national football team during the upcoming 2016 AFF Suzuki Cup.

He also hoped that the squad which received its new coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee officially on Jan 18, will not repeat their disgraceful performance of the past.