Malaysian player attacked with acid speaks honestly about FIFA's sanction

Faisal Halim mentioned he will perform at his best in the game versus Laos and pays no attention to FIFA's penalty.

The key midfielder of Malaysia's national team, Faisal Halim, declared that the players will unite to bring glory to Malaysia despite the turmoil surrounding the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) after FIFA's sanction.

The 27-year-old player said the team is determined to focus ahead of the second leg match against Laos in the third round of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers at Bukit Jalil National Stadium on October 13 (Tuesday).

"This issue is beyond our control," Faisal said."We are players, and our responsibility lies on the field. As a player, I can say we will fight for our honor and keep giving our best against Laos."

Faisal's journey has been extraordinary since returning from the acid attack last year. The Selangor club star was among the scorers in Malaysia's 3-0 victory over Laos last week. Faisal Halim scored again for the national team after 623 days without a goal, expressing happiness and gratitude for the chance to play at the highest level once more.

"After nearly two years without scoring for the national team, I am back and very happy," Faisal said. "The coach gave me the chance to prove I could do it, and I worked hard to achieve my goal. I am thankful for the support and encouragement from my teammates. This is not the end – it is a new beginning for me with the national team."

Before the incident, Faisal was a mainstay of the Malaysian team with 15 goals in 32 matches. He was included in the AFF Cup 2022 best XI and won the best goal award at the Asian Cup 2023. On May 5, he was attacked with sulfuric acid by a stranger in front of a shopping center.

Faisal's injury was severe, suffering fourth-degree burns—the most serious level—where bones and muscles can be affected, and the patient loses sensation due to nerve destruction. Faisal even faced the risk of early retirement.