HARIMAU Malaya coach Kim Pan Gon has stepped down as head coach of the national football team effective immediately due to personal commitments.

The 55-year-old South Korean’s contract as head coach was set to expire at the end of 2025.

Pau Marti Vicente will take over as acting head coach of Harimau Malaya in the meantime.

Kim credited the team’s achievements during his tenure to the unwavering support of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and Harimau Malaya fans, coupled with the dedication of the coaching staff.

“My hope is that the FAM, the government and all Malaysians will continue to support and encourage the national team to achieve the goal of qualifying for the Asian Cup for the second consecutive time,” he said today.

He also paid tribute to the national players, saying they had developed strong character and mentality, which was reflected in their matches.

“For the rest of my life, I will always remember the blue skies of Malaysia, the clouds and trees, the friendly, lovely, bright Malaysian people, the taste of nasi lemak and the smell of durian, all of which I love.

“Now, as a half-Malaysian, I will always support the Malaysian national team and be proud of Malaysia wherever I go,” he said.

Kim oversaw Malaysia’s surge in the world rankings from a lowly 154th spot to their best-ever placing of 130th. – July 16, 2024.