KUALA LUMPUR – Why no one has been arrested over the acid attack on national footballer Faisal Halim, despite it happening in broad daylight, in a public area with CCTV, remains a key question raised by Malaysian footballer Faisal Halim’s lawyers.
They revealed that the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) had classified the case as “no further action” (NFA), a decision conveyed in an official letter dated February 18, 2025, which was received two days later.
According to lawyer Nik Zarith Nik Moustpha, the letter stated that despite efforts by the police, no leads were found that could identify a suspect.
“We were told that despite all efforts, police could not find any clue to associate any individual with the attack,” he said.
“This was a serious crime. It happened in broad daylight, in a public space, with CCTV – the question is, why has no one been arrested?” asked Faisal’s lead counsel Mohd Haijan Omar during a press conference today.
“The issue is, why stop now? Why stop efforts to find (the suspect)?” Haijan further questioned.
“The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the police and the AGC. Even if politicians in the state assembly, such as in Selangor, raise the issue, those are merely calls for action – they are not the police,” he stressed.
Faisal’s legal team has since submitted a formal appeal to the head of the prosecution division on April 18, urging the AGC to reopen the case.
“The attorney-general has full discretion to reopen the case. We are still waiting for a response,” said Nik Zarith.
The lawyers stressed that Faisal had cooperated fully with investigators, giving statements twice, including once while he was still hospitalised, and remains willing to assist with further investigations
They also acknowledged a question by a reporter on why the case was closed despite the presence of video evidence, including footage that went viral.
“We are not personally privy to the police investigation (as it is under police jurisdiction), but we find it difficult to understand why no suspect has been identified when there’s video evidence of the assault,” said Haijan.
“We trust the institutions involved, but we are seeking answers.”
“We understand the video was sent for forensic analysis. We – or even external parties – can request to examine the footage, but only the police have the authority to arrest a suspect,” said Haijan.
“So far, there are no leads. You are all aware of the photofit released by the police – where the suspect’s face is completely masked,” he noted.
Haijan also said that based on Faisal’s account, “he has no issues with anyone. There is no motive, to our knowledge.”
Nik added that while Faisal appears to be mentally well, “of course it has left him traumatised,” especially given the seriousness of the incident – even though he returned to the field in under a year.
Haijan also noted that the case was investigated under Section 326 of the Penal Code for causing grievous hurt with corrosive substances – a serious charge that carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
“This is a serious case involving a public figure. The fact that it remains unsolved raises serious concerns,” he said.
Faisal, who plays for Selangor FC and the Malaysian national team, was attacked with acid at a shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur on May 5, 2024. The incident left him with serious injuries and required multiple surgeries.
“He is disappointed, of course. But he respects the legal process,” said Nik Zarith. “Still, as a victim, he wants to see the case pursued. He wants justice.”
Asked whether legal action might be taken against any parties, the lawyers said such steps could only be considered once the perpetrator is identified. For now, they are focused on urging the AGC to allow investigations to continue. – May 8, 2025