2023 AFF Congress Proceedings and Key Decisions

1. Opening Remarks

1.1 Welcome Address – VFF President Dr. Tran Quoc Tuan

Dr. Tran welcomed the Congress participants and expressed appreciation for the AFF’s efforts in developing ASEAN football. He emphasized Vietnam’s active contribution and reaffirmed support for regional collaboration and success.

1.2 Welcome Address – AFF President Major General Khiev Sameth

The AFF President welcomed delegates, AFC and FIFA representatives, and commercial partners. He recognized the significance of the Congress and expressed appreciation for the host country, the Vietnam Football Federation. He also welcomed AFF’s marketing partners from Sportfive Asia.

2. Confirmation of Quorum and Legal Validity

All 12 Member Associations were present, and the Congress was declared legally convened in accordance with AFF Statutes (2022 Edition).

3. Appointment of Officials

3.1. Minutes Checkers:

• Ah Chua Bangau (Brunei Darussalam)
• Datuk Noor Azman bin Hj Rahman (Malaysia)
• Frederico Pereira Martins (Timor-Leste)

3.2. Scrutineers:

• Ben Teng (Singapore)
• Pimpika Seuyooyong (Thailand)

All appointments were unanimously approved.

4. Approval of Agenda and Minutes

4.1.

The Congress Agenda was presented and unanimously approved.

4.2. Approval of Minutes from Previous Congress

Minutes of the 29th AFF Congress held on 14 November 2022 in Siem Reap, Cambodia, were unanimously approved.

5. Reports and Financial Governance

5.1. General Secretary’s Report

The General Secretary’s Report for 2022 was distributed to all Member Associations on 1 September 2023. It summarized AFF’s key initiatives and activities for the year.

5.2.

The Congress approved the audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2022. The report confirmed AFF’s strong financial health, supported by growing commercial value and a new agreement with Sportfive.

6. Elections and Appointments

6.1. Election of AFF Vice President

Candidate: Mr. Mariano V. Araneta Jr. (Philippines)

With no opposing candidates, Mr. Araneta was elected by acclamation for the 2022–2026 term.

6.2. Election of AFC Executive Committee Member Representing AFF

Candidate: Dr. Tran Quoc Tuan (Vietnam)

Also elected by acclamation for the 2022–2026 term.

Both newly elected members were welcomed and presented with AFF jackets.

7. Presidential Address – Strategic Highlights

7.1.

AFF President Major General Khiev Sameth delivered a comprehensive address, outlining the following key achievements and goals:

• Reinforcement of the AFF Secretariat’s professionalism.
• Strengthened relationships with stakeholders and partners.
• Continued investment in AFF competitions and regional football development.
• Successful resumption of all AFF tournaments post-COVID-19.
• Enhanced commercial strategy, supported by a new long-term agreement with Sportfive.

He highlighted significant achievements in ASEAN football:

• Five ASEAN nations (Vietnam, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand) qualified for the AFC Asian Cup 2023 and AFC U23 Asian Cup 2024.
• Vietnam and Philippines made their debut at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
• Australia’s Matildas reached the semi-finals and achieved record-breaking audience engagement, boosting the profile of women’s football in the region.

7.2. Closing Remarks

Major General Khiev Sameth expressed his gratitude to all participants, including the AFF and VFF staff, members of the Electoral Committee, and partners. He congratulated the newly elected Council members and reaffirmed his commitment to support Member Associations. He called for continued unity and collaboration to transform the AFF for the future.