Alarming: Faisal Halim’s suffered injuries on his left hand, ribs and shoulder due to an acid attack
PETALING JAYA: The Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM) have urged authorities to take players’ safety seriously after two national players ended up as victims of crime this past week.
PFAM president Safee Sali was shocked to know that Faisal Halim was the latest victim and urged authorities to step in.
Nippy winger Faisal, who plies his trade with Selangor and is a key player with Harimau Malaya, was a victim of an acid attack at a shopping mall in Damansara yesterday.
The 26-year-old was brought to hospital for treatment, as he suffered injuries to his face, shoulder and back.
His club confirmed the incident on social media.
“We are sorry to inform you that Selangor player Faisal Halim has been the victim of an acid attack this afternoon.
“The club take this matter seriously and will work with the Police and the authorities to carry out a detailed investigation to identify those involved.
“Selangor call on supporters and football fans nationwide to pray and give moral support to Faisal Halim and his family, and to respect his and his family’s privacy at this time.”
Just days earlier, national winger Akhyar, who plays professionally for Terengganu, was robbed by two men at his residence in Kuala Terengganu.
The 25-year-old suffered a 4cm bruise on his head and had to receive four stitches. He also had two stitches on his left leg.
FAM president Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin visited the hospital where Faisal was admitted and was appalled by the act and wished the player recovery.
“It’s sad to see him in such a state. His legs are fine, but his left hand, ribs and shoulder are injured because of the acid attack.
“He is feeling sad but knowing how he is as a person, he has a strong heart. I told him, forget football for a while and just focus on your recovery.”
Safee wants athletes to be protected.
“This is not good at all. Not good. Players for sure will be on high alert now after what happened to Akhyar (Rashid) and Faisal,” said the former national player.
“Faisal’s case is a serious one because it was an acid attack. I hope the police will thoroughly investigate this matter.
“These players are key players for the national team. They serve the nation on some of the biggest stages, so to see this happening, it’s a cause for concern
“PFAM will be with Faisal and help him get through this phase. We are coordinating something for him because I’m sure it’s a traumatic experience for him.
“We will help him overcome this but it is not going to be easy. I am sure he would not feel safe when he is out and it will not be easy to face people. We will help him get through this.”
Even Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has chimed in by saying Faisal’s case should be handled seriously by the authorities.
“I condemn this violence against athletes. There should be no violence in sports. I urge the Police to take serious action against the person who perpetrated this act,” she posted on her X (Twitter) account.
