KUALA LUMPUR: National midfielder Syamer Kutty Abba is urging Malaysian fans to end their boycott and rally behind Harimau Malaya in the Merdeka Tournament.
The tournament kicks off tomorrow, with Lebanon facing Tajikistan and Malaysia taking on the Philippines at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Fan groups, including Ultras Malaya, have announced a boycott of the Merdeka Tournament in protest against several issues with the FA of Malaysia (FAM), notably the resignation of national coach Kim Pan Gon.
Syamer, 27, hopes that Harimau Malaya's performance against the Philippines would convince fans to fill the 85,000-capacity stadium for the final.
"We play for the fans. Their cheers are like a tonic, motivating us during matches. It's disheartening to hear that they won't be supporting us in the Merdeka Tournament," said Syamer at today's pre-match conference at the National Stadium.
"However, we respect the fans. My job is to play and give my best on the pitch. We cannot control external factors."
"Harimau Malaya need their supporters in the stadium. Even if they aren't there in person, we know they'll be watching from home. Hopefully, they will return to stadium if we reach the final."
Last year, around 46,000 fans watched Malaysia defeat India 4-2 in the opening match at the National Stadium. The final between Tajikistan and Harimau Malaya drew around 37,000 fans, with the former lifting the trophy after a 2-0 victory.