Tan Cheng Hoe Returns as Interim Malaysia Head Coach Ahead of Key Regional Tournaments
KUALA LUMPUR: The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has appointed Tan Cheng Hoe as interim head coach of the national football team, marking the experienced tactician’s return to the Harimau Malaya dugout.
The appointment follows the departure of Peter Cklamovski earlier this month, with FAM citing Cheng Hoe’s extensive coaching experience, proven track record and deep understanding of Malaysian football as the key reasons behind the decision.
In a statement released on Thursday, the national football governing body said Cheng Hoe possesses the leadership and technical expertise required to guide the team through its upcoming regional and international assignments.
FAM expressed confidence that his familiarity with the national setup would provide stability while helping the Harimau Malaya improve their competitiveness at both Asian and international levels.
The 58-year-old previously served as Malaysia’s head coach from December 2017 until December 2021, following an earlier stint as assistant national coach between 2009 and 2013.
During his time as assistant to Datuk K. Rajagobal, Cheng Hoe helped Malaysia win the 2009 SEA Games gold medal and capture the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup title.
As head coach, he guided the national team to the final of the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup, where Malaysia finished runners-up.
At club level, Cheng Hoe also enjoyed considerable success with Kedah, leading the team to the 2015 Premier League title, the 2016 Malaysia Cup and the 2017 Charity Shield.
He later coached Selangor FC from 2022 to 2024 before taking charge of Thailand’s Police Tero FC.
In April 2025, Cheng Hoe rejoined FAM as National Teams Technical Director, a role that kept him closely involved in the country’s football development programme.
His immediate priorities as interim head coach will be preparing Malaysia for next month’s ASEAN Championship followed by the ASEAN FIFA Cup scheduled for September.
