Tan Cheng Hoe back in Harimau Malaya hot seat after Cklamovski exit

KUALA LUMPUR, June 25 — The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) today announced the appointment of Tan Cheng Hoe as the interim head coach of the national football squad, replacing Peter Cklamovski whose contract was terminated this month.

In a statement today, FAM said the appointment was made after taking into account his vast experience, proven track record and deep understanding of the country’s football landscape.

The national football governing body expressed confidence that Tan’s experience, expertise and knowledge would be vital assets in the efforts to strengthen the performance of the Harimau Malaya squad.

“FAM hopes that the appointment of Tan Cheng Hoe as the interim head coach of the national team will breathe new life into Harimau Malaya in our quest to elevate the team’s performance at both the Asian and international levels,” the statement read.

Tan previously helmed the Harimau Malaya squad from December 2017 to December 2021, after serving as the national assistant coach from 2009 to 2013.

Among his notable achievements include assisting Malaysia to win the 2009 SEA Games gold medal and the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup when he was the assistant coach to Datuk K. Rajagobal, as well as steering the national team to a runner-up finish in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup as the head coach.

At the domestic level, he enjoyed a stellar run with Kedah, guiding them to the 2015 Premier League title, the 2016 Malaysia Cup and the 2017 Charity Shield.

Besides making a name for himself with Kedah, Tan also managed Selangor from 2022 to 2024 before moving abroad to Thailand to lead Police Tero FC.

In April 2025, the 58-year-old Alor Setar-born coach returned to FAM after being appointed as the National Squad Technical Director.

The Harimau Malaya squad are scheduled to compete in the Asean Championship starting next month, followed by the Fifa Asean Cup in September. — Bernama