Kuala lumpur: 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.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the appointment was made after considering Cheng Hoe's vast experience, proven track record, and understanding of the country's football landscape. The national football governing body expressed confidence that Cheng Hoe's experience, expertise, and knowledge would be vital in strengthening 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.

Cheng Hoe previously led the Harimau Malaya squad from December 2017 to December 2021, following his role as the national assistant coach from 2009 to 2013. His achievements include assisting Malaysia to win the 2009 SEA Games gold medal and the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup as an assistant coach to Datuk K. Rajagobal, and guiding the national team to a runner-up finish in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup as head coach.

At the domestic level, Cheng Hoe led Kedah to the 2015 Premier League title, the 2016 Malaysia Cup, and the 2017 Charity Shield. He 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 is set to compete in the ASEAN Championship starting next month, followed by the FIFA ASEAN Cup in September.