KUALA LUMPUR: The vicious acid attack on Selangor footballer Faisal Halim earlier this month sparked outrage among Malaysians, but it has also helped unite the nation.
Selangor chief executive officer Dr Johan Kamal Hamidon said it was heartwarming to see Malaysians coming together in support of Faisal and making it clear that violence, in any form, is unacceptable.
"I think overall, Malaysia was united. Mickey (Faisal) and his family are grateful to see all the support," said Johan recently.
"From amateur to professional clubs and even non-football related parties, including mosques, everyone prayed for him.
"It is a good response, it shows that the nation is taking it seriously and wishes him the best.
"It shows that the nation can unite when faced with adversity."
Faisal, whose nickname is Mickey, suffered serious burns in the attack, which occurred at a shopping mall in Damansara on May 5.
He has undergone multiple surgeries since the incident.
Johan was speaking after Selangor's 1-0 win over Kedah on Saturday. It was their first Super League match for the 2024-2025 season.