Cheng Hoe returns to lead Harimau Malaya

PETALING JAYA: The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) today announced the appointment of Tan Cheng Hoe as the interim head coach of the national team, replacing Peter Cklamovski.

Cheng Hoe, 58, previously helmed Harimau Malaya from December 2017 to December 2021, after serving as the national assistant coach from 2009 to 2013.

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

“FAM hopes that Cheng Hoe’s appointment 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,” it said in a statement.

Cheng Hoe currently serves as Harimau Malaya’s technical director.

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 K Rajagobal.

He also guided the national team to a runner-up finish in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup as the head coach.

At the domestic level, he helped Kedah win the 2015 Premier League title, the 2016 Malaysia Cup and the 2017 Charity Shield.

Cheng Hoe also managed Selangor from 2022 to 2024 before moving to Thailand to lead Police Tero FC.

Cklamovski, whose contract was terminated this month, joined English League Two club Salford City FC as its manager.

Salford City, which competes in the fourth tier of the English football league system, is owned by a consortium led by former Manchester United players David Beckham and Gary Neville.