KUALA LUMPUR – Former Malaysian footballer Hairuddin Omar, popularly known as Hai-O, has urged local football fans to remain calm and not criticise the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and Malaysia Stadium Corp (PSM) regarding the condition of the newly upgraded zeon zoysia pitch at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
Speaking to Scoop, the former striker, who won 54 caps and scored 13 goals throughout his international career, said that the footballing and governing bodies have done their part well in improving the condition of the pitch.
“In my opinion, PSM and FAM have done their job well through this initiative. It’s not fair to just criticise them when they have taken such an initiative in developing our football landscape.
“It’s sad to see fans randomly making fun and criticising PSM, FAM, and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh without understanding the full context.
“Rome was not built in a day – I hope our fans understand the situation as the newly upgraded pitch will definitely take some time for the roots to strengthen.
“Once the pitch is matured, I can guarantee that it’s going to be one of the best pitches in Southeast Asia,” said the former player.
Hai-O, who scored a total of 76 goals during his time at Terengganu, Pahang, Negri Sembilan, and Kelantan, conveyed his gratitude to Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim for sponsoring the cost of the pitch for the betterment of Malaysian football.
“I would like to take this moment to convey my thanks to Tunku Ismail for helping out by funding the cost of the pitch.
“Tunku Ismail has done something that no one dares and can afford to do. It shows his commitment and dedication to the progress of Malaysian football and his aspiration to see Malaysia competing at its best with an international-standard pitch,” Hairuddin added.
The Harimau Malaya began their Merdeka Tournament campaign in style by defeating India 4-2 in front of 46,150 fans at the national stadium on Friday.
Malaysia found the back of the net four times through Dion Cools (7th minute), Arif Aiman (20th minute), Faisal Halim (42nd minute), and Corbin Ong (61st minute).
India’s goals came from Mahesh Singh (13th minute) and Sunil Chhetri (61st minute).
Dion Cools earned his 18th cap for Malaysia in the tournament opener and was named Man of the Match.
Malaysia are set to face Tajikistan in the final of the 42nd edition of the Merdeka Tournament on October 17. – October 15, 2023
