Replies to Forum ● Jan 23, 2019
Partnership with stakeholders crucial in local football
We refer to letters by Mr Yeo Hock Yew (‘Clarity on local football ‘ecosystem’ needed’ and ‘Why are FAS, Fandi keeping mum on ‘unique ecosystem’ comment?’) and Mr George Pasqual (‘Fandi really should explain his cryptic comment’). Both writers requested for clarity on what was meant by a ‘unique ecosystem’ in local football (‘FAS not seeking a big name’) in a Straits Times article published on 7 December 2018.
Much like several other football-playing countries with a small population size and land constraints, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) have had to work around these factors as we develop the sport in Singapore.
Our local young footballers, similar to other local athletes, have to juggle their commitments to national service and priorities on academia – an age group where globally and regionally, football players are full-time professionals.
While we enjoy broad participation at the grassroots level, the apex of the development pyramid is narrower, as in all elite sports.
Having led the Lions for the 2018 ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup campaign, Fandi Ahmad is conscious of how important it is for national teams to have the support from all stakeholders as the team prepares for a campaign.
In this regard, the FAS enjoys a close partnership with our partners and stakeholders, and we will continue to work closely with them to ensure that our local footballers are able to perform in the best possible environment for their development.
Mr Yazeen Buhari
General Secretary
Football Association of Singapore
