SINGAPORE, 1 SEPTEMBER 2025 – The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) announces that Chew Chun-Liang has stepped down from his role as General Secretary with immediate effect. The FAS extends its deepest gratitude to Chun-Liang for his dedicated service and contributions to Singapore football during his tenure, and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.
In light of this development, FAS is pleased to appoint Badri Ghent as the new General Secretary. Badri brings with him a wealth of experience in football management and operations, having most recently served as Sporting Director of Lion City Sailors FC.
Prior to his role at Lion City Sailors FC, Badri was the youngest-ever General Manager in the Singapore Premier League when he was appointed at Home United FC in 2017, having previously served as Team Manager from 2014. His early leadership set a precedent in the league and reflected his forward-thinking approach and commitment to developing local football. At Home United, he laid the groundwork for high-performance culture and professional club operations that would later flourish further under his stewardship at Lion City Sailors FC.
As Sporting Director of Lion City Sailors since the club’s inception in 2020, Badri has overseen a period of unprecedented success. Under his leadership, the club achieved multiple major domestic titles, including Singapore Premier League championships, Singapore Cup victories, and Singapore Community Shield wins. He also played a central role in guiding the club to a historic continental achievement—reaching the final of the AFC Champions League Two, marking a milestone in Singapore football. Additionally, he was instrumental in recruiting quality coaching staff and establishing the professional standards that have made the Sailors a benchmark for excellence in local football.
FAS President Mr Forrest Li said on Mr Chew Chun-Liang: “On behalf of the Council, I want to thank Chun-Liang for his service and dedication. His professionalism and steady leadership provided stability and strengthened our administration during an important period. He has always carried himself with humility and commitment, and we wish him every success in his future endeavours.”
On Mr Badri Ghent, Mr Li added: “Badri has been involved in Singapore football for more than a decade and has a deep understanding of our local football ecosystem. His experience — from management roles at Home United to his leadership at Lion City Sailors — reflects his ability to raise standards and build strong structures. We are confident that his leadership as General Secretary will help us drive forward the Council’s priorities, strengthen the National Team, and elevate Singapore football in the years ahead.”
Badri’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Singapore football. With a strong track record of success, effective implementation, and deep experience across both club and developmental structures, he is well-positioned to lead FAS in its mission to elevate the game at all levels—from grassroots to elite international performance.
He assumes the role as the Lions search for a Head Coach and work towards making history by qualifying for the Asian Cup finals for the first time. The team will play in two preparation matches against Malaysia and Myanmar in September, before taking on India in an Asian Cup Qualifier double-header in October.
The FAS warmly welcomes Badri to his new role and looks forward to his leadership in advancing the sport for the benefit of the football community across Singapore.
