The decision to classify an investigation into the acid attack on national footballer Faisal Halim as requiring no further action (NFA) marks a dark chapter in Malaysian sports, says PAS Youth.
The wing said the decision had not only shocked Malaysians, but also painted a deeply concerning picture of the state of public safety and the accountability of the authorities in handling such a serious crime.
Apart from calling on the matter to be raised in Parliament, PAS Youth said the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) and the police should explain why the case was classified as NFA to avoid eroding the public’s trust and confidence in the authorities.
“It is wholly unacceptable for such a major case to be closed without any prosecution or reasonable explanation to the public,” its chief, Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden, said in a statement.
“Can Malaysia truly claim to be a nation governed by the rule of law if there is no justice or protection for its people in cases like this?
“This case shook the nation and involved serious injuries to a victim who has inspired many young Malaysians.
“Do not allow the people to suffer a crisis of confidence in the authorities simply because of the government’s failure or negligence in safeguarding and ensuring the safety of its citizens.”
Earlier today, Faisal’s lawyer, Nik Zarith Nik Moustpha, said the case was classified as NFA as the police could not find any clues or leads that could link any individual as a suspect.
He said the AGC communicated this decision through a letter dated Feb 18.
Nik Zarith said his team has sent letters to the speaker of the Dewan Rakyat and the president of the Dewan Negara, as well as to the home ministry, urging them to prioritise the case.
He also said a letter was sent to the AGC on April 18 calling for the case to be reopened.
Selangor FC winger Faisal had to undergo four surgeries after he suffered fourth-degree burns from an acid attack at a mall in Selangor on May 5 last year.
While the attack left him in critical condition, Faisal – who had at one point considered hanging up his boots – has since returned to action for both his club and the national team.
The incident was the second in a series of assaults on star footballers last May.
Terengganu FC winger Akhyar Rashid was attacked by two robbers after returning home from training on May 2, while former national team and Johor Darul Ta’zim skipper Safiq Rahim had his car’s rear windscreen smashed five days later.
Police previously said they were investigating whether the attacks were linked, with the Football Association of Malaysia recommending that players consider hiring bodyguards.
