SHAH ALAM: Acid attack survivor Faisal Halim has begun light physiotherapy to regain muscle strength despite his wounds not being fully healed.
Selangor FC chief executive officer Dr Johan Kamal Hamidon shared that their nippy winger's recovery is progressing well.
Faisal continues to visit the hospital for wound care and dressing.
Johan said that the main focus is to ensure Faisal's wounds fully heal before he moves on to the next phase involving fitness aspects in his mission to return to the pitch.
He added that Faisal is showing positive progress and remains eager to return to action.
"Our priority for now is to get the wound completely dry. If the wounds are not healed, he cannot start vigorous activities. He is undergoing light physiotherapy to prevent excessive sweating to avoid his muscles getting too stiff," said Johan after the signing ceremony between Selangor and Johawaki Holdings Sdn Bhd in Shah Alam today (June 11).
"He needs to complete the first phase before moving to the second phase. The wounds were still wet when I visited him. Some areas were yellowish and I'm not sure about it, probably pus, but the fact remains that the wounds have not yet dried."
"His progress is very encouraging considering that the doctor initially stated he needed a seven weeks in the hospital, but he was discharged in three to four weeks. He was supposed to undergo nine surgeries but only had four.
"I believe this is due to the prayers of all Malaysians, and at this point, he is only thinking about getting back on the field. His spirit is high, but his body is not yet ready.
"I have advised Faisal to be patient, to fully recover, and focus on fitness before returning to play."
Faisal suffered fourth-degree burns after being splashed with acid by two unknown assailants on May 5 at a shopping centre in Damansara.
The culprits are yet to be detained by the police.