SHAH ALAM - Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) owner Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim has challenged Selangor FC to focus on self-improvement rather than drawing comparisons with JDT's success.
His comments came on Instagram following Selangor's trophyless season despite alleged significant government support.
Tunku Ismail acknowledged the state's backing for Selangor but highlighted their lack of silverware despite favorable conditions.
"Please 'break this record.' The President of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) is from Selangor, the majority of the Exco including Datuk Shahril are from Selangor and in FAS.
"The head referee, Dato Sundra is from Selangor, the CEO of MFL (Malaysian Football League) Dato Stuart is from Selangor.
"The Crown Prince of Selangor [Raja Muda Selangor] [gives] 45 million a year, the Selangor Government has been helping for eight years yet there is still no trophy.
"Qualifying for Asia is only because JDT wins all the Cups. If not, we wouldn't have a chance," he said through his InstaStory today.
Previously, JDT extended their dominance in the Malaysian League when they won a double quadruple after repeating the success of emerging as champions of the Charity Shield, FA Cup, Super League and Malaysia Cup.
The Harimau Selatan squad finished the 2023 Super League with 76 points from 25 wins, one draw and maintained an unbeaten record in 26 matches played.
JDT also created its own history when it recorded 100 goals in a season and only conceded seven times in the 2023 Super League.
Tunku Ismail also advised Selangor to focus on its own club, not to make comparisons and not to accuse carelessly.
"We have surpassed previous records, creating a new milestone. Remember, my friend, God always helps and blesses the right person or party.
This blessing is not a coincidence, the Almighty has planned it. When you have good intentions, you are always blessed," he said.
Previously, in a separate comment on the Instagram page, Tunku Ismail also claimed to be responsible for proposing the name of Tan Cheng Hoe as the team manager.
"Tan Cheng Hoe, who 'recommended' the meeting time at Hotel Hyatt KL? Humans are quick to forget.
"Sometimes in life, don't be shy to say thank you.
"Good night my JDT family. The king of professional football," he said.