Malaysian Footballer Faisal Halim Vows Return After Acid Attack
Written by Jerry Alomatu on June 13, 2024
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Faisal Halim, a prominent Malaysian international footballer, broke down in tears on Thursday as he expressed his determination to return to the sport following a brutal acid attack in May.
Faisal, a 26-year-old winger for Selangor FC, sustained fourth-degree burns on his neck, shoulder, hands, and chest during the assault at a shopping centre outside Kuala Lumpur on May 5. Nicknamed “Mickey,” Faisal endured multiple surgeries and spent three weeks in the hospital recovering from his injuries.
Speaking publicly for the first time since the attack, a visibly emotional Faisal said, “My hope is to return to the pitch in the next one to two months, even though the doctor says it could take up to six months.” He added, “I am willing to return to training when doctors give me the green light.”
During the press conference, scars were visible on the left side of his head and face, and he appeared underweight with noticeably slower physical movements. Faisal was escorted by a dozen bodyguards, and he revealed that he is currently in a secret location with his family due to safety concerns. “I hope I can soon be free and no longer need to hide,” he said.
The attack on Faisal was the most severe among a series of crimes targeting top-flight Malaysian footballers in May, although the incidents are not believed to be connected. Following the assault, two individuals were arrested but later released without charges, leaving the motive behind the attack unclear.
Faisal, an established player for the Malaysian national team, gained recognition for his equalizer against South Korea, which was voted the best goal at the Asian Cup earlier this year. “I miss football,” he confessed, expressing his eagerness to return to the field.
The Malaysian domestic football season was set to commence on May 10 with a match between Faisal’s Selangor FC and Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT). However, Selangor FC withdrew from the game citing “a series of criminal incidents and recent threats.” The league eventually started the following day under heightened security measures.
Faisal’s case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the challenges faced by athletes in the region and prompting calls for increased security and support for players.
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Author: Jerry Alomatu
Astute communicator
