MCA Youth is deeply troubled by the recent decision to close the acid attack case involving national footballer Faisal Abdul Halim with no arrests or charges. This decision is not only a blow to Faisal and his family—it is a sad day for sports development in Malaysia.

Faisal survived a horrific attack that left him with fourth-degree burns, required multiple surgeries, and changed his life forever. Though he has courageously returned to the sport, the trauma he has endured cannot and must not be dismissed. It is crucial to ask: Who will bear the cost of his lifelong medical and psychological care?

The classification of the case as “No Further Action” (NFA), despite 23 individuals being questioned and multiple detentions, is a disturbing signal that justice has not been served. Such inaction emboldens perpetrators and weakens public faith in our criminal justice system.

This decision also threatens Malaysia’s standing as a safe destination for international sporting events. How can we expect to host global tournaments, attract world-class athletes, or grow our sports sector if serious crimes against athletes can occur with no accountability and no resolution?

We call upon Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and Deputy Minister Adam Adli to take immediate action by engaging Home Minister Dato’ Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Law Minister Dato’ Seri Azalina Othman Said to reopen this investigation and pursue every lead. It is not enough to express concern—there must be concrete action.

Justice must be served. The case must remain open. Shutting the file now sends the wrong message: that perpetrators can assault public figures with impunity, and that the system will not protect the victims despite the prevalence of the Penal Code—even national heroes like Faisal.

If this is how we treat our top athletes, what hope is there for young Malaysians dreaming of a career in sports? This case cannot be allowed to fade into silence. The nation, and the world, is watching.

Neow Choo Seong
MCA Youth Information Chief

9 May 2025

-MCA Comm-