Malaysia: Velappan Slams AFC Relocation Plans

Velappan, an ex-AFC secretary-general who served the organising for 30 years, believes Bin Hammam’s plans will create friction amongst member nations in Asia.

"It is a foolish move by Bin Hammam. The move is dangerous as it will destroy the unity and solidarity of Asian football," he was quoted as saying by AFP.

Earlier this month, Bin Hammam created headlines by announcing that the organisation will be shifting its headquarters from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. And, he invited applications from the 46 member nations to host the AFC facility.

Despite opposition from East Asian nations such as South Korea and Japan, Hammam appears intent of relocating the AFC headquarters out of Malaysia,

"All these guys are against the relocation plan," Velappan said, referring to South Korea and Japan, as well as Middle East countries like Kuwait and Bahrain.

The 73-year-old boldly claimed Bin Hammam’s decision was an attempt to punish Malaysia for inviting Premier League side Manchester United to tour the country, even though the Asian Cup tournament was held last year.

Malaysia co-hosted the Asian Cup along with Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam.

AFC intervened and United pulled out from the friendly match that was scheduled to be played in Kuala Lumpur.

"He wants to get back at Malaysia for inviting the Red Devils," he said.

History And Contribution

Velappan urged Qatar, United Arab Emirates and other nations to withdraw their bids, citing Malaysia’s history and contribution to the AFC.

He also added the South-east Asia nation possessed a strategic geographical position. The AFC headquarters has been based in Malaysia since 1965.

"Malaysia is the epicenter of Asian football. Nobody has complained about having the AFC headquarters in Malaysia," he said.

"As secretary-general for 30 years and with the support of Malaysian leaders, we have built up the segmented Asia into a truly united Asian family.”

With the AFC executive committed set to convene in Shanghai later in November, he has called for them to veto Bin Hammam’s proposal.

"I hope the executive committee members will reject the proposal and not take it to the congress next year as it will create divisions which will be detrimental to the unity and growth of Asian football," he added.

Velappan blasted Bin Hammam and claims he wants to become FIFA president in the future. The Qatari took over the reins of the AFC in 2002. And, he appealed to AFC members not to re-elect Bin Hammam for a second term.

"This is his ultimate aim (to become FIFA president). He is going for Sepp Blatter's job. Bin Hammam has told Blatter that he should not overstay. But it will be a futile attempt as there are other, better candidates," he said.