However, a twist of fate dramatically altered Faisal’s perspective on both life and his thriving football career. He began his journey at the age of 17 with his beloved Penang team and saw his career flourish with a notable transfer to Selangor in 2023.
In a tragic incident, he sustained severe burns across his face, neck, shoulders, hands, and chest, which significantly affected his ability to speak and move, keeping him away from the football field for over two months.
“Every day, I was haunted by flashbacks,” Faisal reflects on his hospital stay. “It was an incredibly tough time; I felt mentally drained and my spirits were low.”
“Everything has changed. I find it hard to smile these days.
“There were moments I thought about quitting football due to my fears. Yet, I received an outpouring of calls and messages daily. While I was hospitalized, my wife would read them to me as I couldn’t even hold my phone.”
“The entire nation of Malaysia was praying for my recovery, which fueled my courage to return to the pitch.”
In July 2024, Faisal initiated a month-long recovery and personal training regimen with Selangor. Remarkably, he was back on the bench by the next month during a Malaysian FA Cup semi-final match—precisely 90 days after the life-altering incident.
His return to competitive football has not been without challenges.
While he may no longer be the first name on the line-up for Selangor or the Malaysian national team, Faisal is optimistic that the toughest days are behind him.
“I just want the chance to play again,” he asserts. “I feel confident, normal, and fully ready. I crave more time on the pitch.”
Faisal’s inspiring comeback is not just a testament to his resilience but also serves as a beacon of hope, according to Selangor’s head coach Katsuhito Kinoshi.
“What Faisal needs to do now is showcase his unwavering positivity and strength to both our supporters and the broader Malaysian football community,” he adds.
“He possesses the unique ability to inspire fans, not just through his gameplay but also through his remarkable journey.”