KUALA LUMPUR – Whether it is the English Premier League or the Malaysian Super League, footballers often express dissatisfaction with referees when they disagree with decisions.
While some frustration is expected in the heat of competition, physically assaulting match officials is an entirely different matter—one that requires serious attention.
In Malaysia, several senior footballers in the Super League have found themselves in trouble for their behaviour towards referees. However, the majority of incidents seem to involve younger players.
In the past two years, at least 37 reported incidents have involved youth footballers, primarily from the under-14, under-16, and under-18 categories, who faced disciplinary action for violent conduct against match officials.
Alarmingly, this troubling trend has even made its way into grassroots football, with players as young as 10 and 12 being implicated.
The Suparimau League, which features over 14,000 young footballers across 11 districts in Malaysia and has been a key platform for aspiring footballers since its launch in January 2022, has also drawn attention to incidents of disrespect towards referees.
Last year, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) issued show-cause letters to two academy clubs in response to the misconduct of their players in the Suparimau League.
With this concerning trend continuing to plague youth football, serious questions arise: Has football become a breeding ground for aggression? Why aren’t young players being taught to respect match officials?
Speaking to Scoop, national under-16 manager Christopher Raj emphasised that youth team coaches must take greater responsibility for setting a positive example and instilling respect for referees in their players.
Christopher, who is also a member of FAM’s communications and media committee, noted the need for footballers to balance competitiveness with respect.
“It’s very concerning to see the attitude of some young footballers these days, and it’s evident with the high number of cases in the past few months.
“Incidents like attacking referees and showing disrespect are getting out of hand, and it’s a very serious matter. This has now become a trend in all youth competitions, including FAM’s Youth Cup and the President’s Cup.
“More than just playing the game and being competitive, it’s crucial for youth clubs, managers, and coaches to instill the value of fair play and respect for referees. Pushing and fighting referees gains young footballers nothing.
“If they behave like this at 16, they’ll only get worse as they grow older. I hope everyone plays a part in educating our young footballers to control their anger and emotions, ensuring they have a progressive career in football,” Christopher said when contacted.
For the record, Christopher’s under-16 squad, under the guidance of Javier Jorda Ribera, will face Laos, the United Arab Emirates, and Lebanon in the 2025 AFC U17 Asian Cup qualifiers, scheduled from October 19 to 26. – September 17, 2024