Press Releases ● Jun 20, 2013
LionsXII player receives a fine of $4000, and to serve 30 hours of community service
SINGAPORE, 20 June 2013: The FAS Internal Disciplinary Committee convened today with regard to the charge against LionsXII player Shakir Hamzah. Shakir was charged for bringing the game into disrepute after he falsely informed FAS in May that he had the permission from his unit to travel to Kuantan for the Malaysia Super League match against Pahang FC on May 17.
The FAS Internal Disciplinary Committee found Shakir guilty of the charge and has decided to impose a fine of $4,000 to be paid in two monthly instalments by 20 August 2013. In addition, Shakir has to serve 30 hours of community service in football to be completed within three months under the supervision of an FAS Youth Coach.
Mr Mohamed Muzamil, Chairman of the FAS Internal Disciplinary Committee said: “We take a serious view of Shakir’s misconduct which includes absence without leave (AWOL) from his unit, as well as falsely informing FAS’ officials. We would like to reiterate that we do not condone such acts which bring the game into disrepute. We are, however, charging him with violating Clause 1(b) and Clause 1(d) of the FAS Code of Conduct & Professional Ethics (“the Code of Conduct) for LionsXII players, and not the AWOL incident as that has been dealt with by the relevant authorities. Clause 1(b) stipulates that all players are ambassadors of the FAS and must avoid putting themselves in situations that could disparage the image of Singapore, FAS, his club or fellow LionsXII players, coaches or officials, whereas Clause 1 (d) states that all players must not engage in any activities or conduct contrary to the Laws of Singapore or in any place where training or competition is held and should further refrain from any activity or conduct that will put the FAS or the FAS programme in negative publicity, embarrassment or disrepute.
“Having investigated the incident and having considered all the relevant facts and circumstances, and the mitigating factors, the Disciplinary Committee decided to impose a fine of $4,000 to be paid in two monthly instalments by 20 August 2013, and for Shakir to serve 30 hours of community service in football to be completed within three months under the supervision of an FAS Youth Coach. We also note that Shakir is genuinely remorseful and immediately apologised to FAS and the fans following the completion of his detention earlier on Monday, and that he had pleaded guilty and admitted to the charge unreservedly. FAS will work closely with his coaches to mentor him and further facilitate his development, both on and off-the-pitch”, added Mr Muzamil.
Shakir said: “I deeply regret my action and I accept the punishment meted out by FAS. I would like to apologise again to the FAS, my unit, LionsXII coaches and teammates, as well as our fans for the mistake and bringing the game into disrepute. I have learnt my lesson and I am determined to show that I am a changed person – both on and off the pitch. I will also continue to work hard, remain focused and play my part in helping my team achieve more success.”
LionsXII head coach V. Sundramoorthy said: “Shakir is a good player but like any other professional footballers, he has to ensure that he maintains a high level of discipline at all times. While I am disappointed by his act, I am convinced that he is determined to move forward. We have been counselling him and since then there have been positive changes in him. We believe he will continue to change for the better. I will continue to guide him, and help him become a good footballer who is disciplined both on and off the field.”
FAS Deputy Director Ridzal Saat: “Shakir fully understands the repercussions of his action and is genuinely remorseful. We will continue to counsel and work closely with Shakir to maximise his potential and facilitate his development both on and off the pitch. Like any other organisation, we are always learning from experience and looking at ways to enhance our efficiency. We will also continue to review our current processes and procedures, which include leave management for teams and players who are not part of the National Service Sportsmen Scheme.”
