Malaysian football starts under increased security precautions after attacks

In a third incident on Tuesday, former Malaysian skipper Safiq Rahim escaped unhurt after he was threatened with a hammer and his car windscreen was smashed by two assailants.

But football authorities said Malaysia Super League matches would take place, starting with Polis DiRaja Malaysia (PDRM) FC against Kedah on Saturday north of the capital Kuala Lumpur.

The football association demanded that players hire bodyguards, while reigning champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) tightened security for its squad after canceling its season opener.

Hundreds of fans turned out for the PDRM-Kedah game on Saturday, some holding banners in support of the attacked players. The number of police around the stadium was increased and the officers were armed with pistols.

“We are not afraid and will not allow the series of attacks on football players to dampen our enthusiasm for this great sport,” said 38-year-old utility worker and Kedah fan Syakirin Said.

“Look around, the police presence is heavy. If we unite, we can defend ourselves against these ugly perpetrators.”

The local district’s deputy police chief, Abang Kaderi Abang Wasli, told AFP that security at the stadium had been doubled and about 60 officers were on site.

“We will search anyone who looks suspicious. We also have plainclothes officers at the stadium to ensure security,” he said.

“Fans should feel safe watching the game. Do not be afraid.”

The scheduled opening match between two of Malaysia’s top football clubs, JDT and Selangor FC, has been canceled after the latter cited “a series of criminal incidents and recent threats”.

The motive for the attacks is yet to be determined and a suspect remains arrested for questioning in connection with the acid attack on Selangor and Malaysian winger Faisal.

The 26-year-old, nicknamed “Mickey”, was in intensive care with fourth-degree burns, his movements and speech impaired after the attack last week at a shopping center outside the capital.

Officials said he responded well after undergoing a skin graft.

Syakirin, the Kedah fan, urged other fans to continue to pay attention to their teams not to let the attackers win after the attacks disrupted the league.

“I appeal to all football fans in Malaysia: let us stand together and show solidarity with the players to reject violence,” he said.