Malaysian football "doesn't deserve JDT," says disappointed TMJ

KUALA LUMPUR – The Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail has voiced his disappointment with certain groups in the local football scene who, he says, still fail to recognise Johor Darul Ta’zim’s (JDT) achievements over the past decade.

In a post on his official Instagram account, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, who is also known as TMJ, slammed what he described as a backward mentality that rejects the modern and professional approach JDT has introduced over the last 12 years.

Since its founding, JDT has established itself as a powerhouse in Malaysian football, with world-class facilities like the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium and the JDT Academy in Iskandar Puteri. - File photo

“We’re being held back by foolish people who can’t tell the difference. Twelve years of breaking records and making history on and off the field. Yet they still don’t get it,” the JDT owner said.

He added that Malaysian football seems out of step with JDT's vision and standards and that the local football environment is not ready to embrace change fully.

“Malaysian football doesn’t deserve JDT. They should go back to the ‘local boy’ mindset, where the Malaysia Cup is more important than the league and the AFC Cup is dismissed,” he said.

TMJ’s remarks appear aimed at certain fans and stakeholders who continue to prioritise traditional achievements over systematic club development, including investments in infrastructure, management and youth development.

He also lamented the ongoing scepticism surrounding JDT despite the club’s many accomplishments, including winning the 2015 AFC Cup — the only Malaysian team to have done so.

“We’re way too fast and far ahead of them. Facts never lie,” he said.

Since its founding, JDT has established itself as a powerhouse in Malaysian football, with world-class facilities like the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium and the JDT Academy in Iskandar Puteri.

The academy plays a crucial role in developing young national talents.

TMJ expressed hope that the local football scene would eventually evolve to become more modern and professional, keeping pace with developments in global football. - AWANI