KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor football fans are urging the authorities to swiftly identify Faisal Halim's assailants.
Selangor Fans Club president, Faizal Wahid, said millions of fans are awaiting updates on the police investigation, 12 days after the horrifying acid attack. Faisal, who was splashed with acid by two strangers in Damansara, suffered serious injuries from fourth-degree burns.
He said Malaysians, particularly football enthusiasts, want the assailants to face justice.
"On behalf of the fans, we seek answers regarding who could commit such a heinous act and what their motive might be. It is our fervent hope that this case sees resolution soon.
"We demand accountability, regardless of the perpetrators' status, rank, or position," said Faizal, following a "solidarity-friendly" match for Faisal between Anak Sejati FC and Kieran 11ven
at the Pandamaran Arena in Klang on Wednesday night.
The match ended at 7-7, and the number seven is synonymous with Faisal's Selangor jersey. Both teams donned jerseys bearing the number 7 behind every player.
In addition to the match, prayers were also offered for Faisal's well-being and health, accompanied by a campaign denouncing violence in football.
Maskiran Jakiran, the captain of the Kieran 11ven, who is a former radio presenter known as Kieran, expressed hopes for Faisal's speedy recovery and return to the football pitch.
"The true motive behind the attack remains unknown, leaving the entire nation wondering why Faisal was targeted in such a manner. Even my son inquired about the perpetrators' motives.
"Sulfuric acid is extremely hazardous, had it hit his head, Faisal's career would undoubtedly have been jeopardized, and he might never play football again," said Maskiran.