Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Kuala Lumpur: Former AFC President Tan Sri Hamzah Abu Samah passed away on Tuesday in the Malaysian capital at the University Malaya Medical Centre due to old age. He was 88 years old.
Malaysian Tan Sri Hamzah served as the President of AFC from 1978 until 1994 as well as helming the Football Association of Malaysia from 1976 until 1983. He was a FIFA Vice-President from 1982 until 1990.
"it's a very sad day for Asian football as we have lost one of our biggest heroes," AFC Acting President Zhang Jilong said in a message.
"Tan Sri Hamzah was a visionary football leader who played a major role in shaping the confederation's future. It was during his presidency this confederation learnt to embrace ambitious plans to define the future of the game in the continent.
"He was a highly experienced, enthusiastic and hands-on administrator who led by example and inspired his colleagues with his boundless energy," added Jilong.
"On behalf of AFC and the AFC Executive Committee, I offer my sincere condolences to his family, friends and the sports fraternity of Malaysia. His great contribution to our confederation and the world of sports will never be forgotten. "
Tan Sri Hamzah was a Malaysian sports icon who also served as a member of the International Olympic Council from 1978 until 2004, President of the Olympic Council of Malaysia (1976-1998), Vice President of the Olympic Council of Asia (1982-1986).