After rejecting FAM's appeal, FIFA requested a criminal investigation in 5 countries - the origin of 7 players identified as naturalized in violation of the procedure.
In a report to relevant parties, FIFA's Reprimand Committee stated that the investigation will focus on the role of Mr. Noor Azman Rahman and two licensed player agents, Nicolas puppo and Frederico Moraes.
According to information from Indonesian media, FIFA assessed Mr. Azman Rahman as the person "deeply involved" in the process of handling documents leading to the scandal. As soon as the incident was discovered at the end of September, FAM suspended the General Secretary's work to serve the investigation process.
In his initial speech, Mr. Azman Rahman said that the errors stemmed from technical factors. However, further developments show that FIFA wants to comprehensively clarify his role in appraising documents, as well as in the process of handling related documents.
The appearance of Mr. Azman Rahman alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino during his visit to Malaysia in October caused much controversy in local public opinion. Some opinions say that his influence in FAM is not enough to spearhead the violation, but it still needs to be clarified during the investigation.
Under pressure from the public and control organizations, FAM established an independent investigation committee headed by former Chief Justice Tun Md Raus Sharif. The initial results of the internal investigation are expected to be released in December to determine the specific responsibilities of each individual.
Noor Azman Rahman continues to be suspended until FIFA and FAM complete the verification, while the investigation is still being expanded.
