"I sincerely thank everyone for their support and understanding of my decision. The time has come for me to pursue a new challenge," Cklamovski said following confirmation of his departure. "My deepest gratitude goes to the players and the entire team for their dedication throughout this journey. I hope Malaysian football continues to grow, with decisions always made in the best interests of the game and the players."

The Australian coach took charge of Malaysia in March 2025 and experienced a turbulent spell at the helm, including controversy surrounding the country's naturalized player program.

Following sanctions imposed by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation over player eligibility issues, Malaysia's Asian Cup qualifying campaign ended in disappointment with a 3-1 defeat to Vietnam, leaving the team without a place at the 2027 continental finals.

Attention then shifted to ASEAN Cup 2026, scheduled to begin in July, where Malaysia had hoped to rebuild momentum and mount a strong regional challenge.

However, Cklamovski's resignation now leaves the team searching for new leadership just weeks before the tournament begins.

Malaysia have been drawn into Group B alongside Thailand, Myanmar, the Philippines and Laos.

Defending champions Vietnam will compete in Group A with Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia and Timor-Leste.

Vietnam begins title defense preparations

Vietnam will begin preparations for the tournament when the squad assembles in Hanoi on June 22 under head coach Kim Sang Sik.

The team is scheduled to spend more than a week training domestically before departing for a training camp in South Korea.

Vietnam's ASEAN Cup title defense starts with an away match against Timor-Leste on July 24, with the venue yet to be confirmed.

The team will then host Singapore on July 31 before traveling to face Indonesia on August 3.

Vietnam's final group-stage match will be against Cambodia on August 7.

With the tournament fast approaching, Malaysia's unexpected coaching change adds a new layer of uncertainty to one of Vietnam's traditional regional rivals.

Dai Nam