A Malaysian national team footballer, Faisal Halim, who fell victim to an acid attack, has made significant progress in his recovery journey, according to football officials. Faisal, also known as "Mickey," sustained burns to his neck, shoulder, hands, and chest during the attack, which occurred in the Petaling Jaya district near Kuala Lumpur.

After undergoing multiple surgeries, the 26-year-old, who plays as a right-winger for Selangor Football Club and the Malaysian national team, has been transferred from the intensive care unit (ICU) to a regular ward. Shahril Mokhtar, the deputy president of the Selangor Football Association, provided an update on Faisal's condition, stating that he is now in stable condition.

Faisal, a beloved figure in Malaysian football, gained recognition for his exceptional skills, including scoring a remarkable equalizer against South Korea during the 2023 Asian Cup, a goal that was voted the best of the tournament.

The acid attack on Faisal follows a series of concerning incidents involving Malaysian footballers, including a robbery involving national team player Akhyar Rashid and a threatening encounter with former Malaysia skipper Safiq Rahim.

These incidents have raised alarm and outrage within the football community in Malaysia, prompting ongoing police investigations to determine the motives behind the attacks. The recent escalation in violence has also led to heightened security concerns, with the cancellation of the Charity Shield and apprehensions about player safety during league matches.

As authorities continue their investigations, the football-crazy nation remains on edge, hoping for swift justice and measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its footballing talents.