Who is Faisal Halim?: Malaysian Football Star and National Team Key Player

Muhammad Faisal bin Abdul Halim (born 7 January 1998), widely known as Faisal Halim or by his nickname Mickey, is a professional Malaysian footballer. Renowned for his agility, technical skill, and goal-scoring prowess, Faisal currently captains Selangor in the Malaysian Super League and is a key member of the Malaysia national team.

Early Life and Background

Faisal was born in Mengkuang Titi, Penang, Malaysia. Showing footballing promise from a young age, he began his professional career with Penang FC at just 17 years old. His early performances quickly attracted attention, paving the way for a successful career in Malaysian football.

Club Career

Penang (2015)

Faisal made his professional debut with Penang in the 2015 Malaysia Premier League. On 17 October 2015, he scored his first goal in a Malaysia Cup match against PDRM, though Penang lost 2–3. Faisal’s skill in the Malaysia President Cup caught the eye of Penang’s management, marking him as a promising talent. He made 3 appearances and scored 1 goal during his stint with Penang before moving on.

Pahang (2016–2020)

In November 2015, Faisal joined Pahang FC, making his league debut in a 2–2 draw against T–Team. He scored his first goal for Pahang in a 1–3 loss to Selangor on 27 February 2016. Over five years, Faisal made 60 appearances, scoring 9 goals and providing 4 assists. He also won his first major trophy with the team, lifting the 2018 Malaysia FA Cup.

Terengganu (2021–2022)

On 6 December 2020, Faisal signed a two-year contract with Terengganu FC, donning the number 7 jersey. He debuted on 6 March 2021 in a 2–1 victory against UiTM and scored his first goal on 14 March 2021 against Perak. During his tenure, he played 42 league matches, scoring 21 goals across all competitions. Faisal was instrumental in helping Terengganu secure second place in the 2022 league and qualify for the 2023 AFC Cup.

Selangor (2023–Present)

Faisal joined Selangor FC on 22 December 2022 on a free transfer. He made his debut on 26 February 2023, helping Selangor win 1–0 against Kelantan United. His first goal for Selangor came on 31 March 2023 via a penalty against Kuala Lumpur City.

He achieved his first brace on 25 August 2023, contributing to Selangor’s record 2–11 away victory over Kelantan. Faisal ended the 2023 season with 12 goals and 11 assists in 28 appearances, helping Selangor finish second in the league.

In mid-2024, Faisal was the victim of a criminal acid attack, suffering fourth-degree burns. After months of recovery, he resumed training and returned to competitive football in August 2024, scoring a hat-trick on 8 March 2025 after 97 days away from the pitch. In July 2025, he was appointed Selangor captain following the loan of Safuwan Baharuddin.

International Career

Faisal made his senior debut for Malaysia on 2 June 2019 against Nepal. Key highlights include:

• 2020 AFF Championship: Participated in one group stage match.
• 2022 AFF Championship: Scored 4 goals in the tournament, including a brace against Laos. Named in the All-Star XI for the tournament.
• 2023 AFC Asian Cup Qualification: Scored against Turkmenistan.
• 2023 Merdeka Tournament: Scored in a 4–2 semi-final win over India.
• 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification: Scored a stoppage-time winner against Kyrgyzstan, completing a 4–3 comeback victory.
• 2023 AFC Asian Cup: Scored against South Korea, earning a spot in the Team of Matchday 3 and winning Goal of the Tournament.

Player Profile

Style of Play

Faisal is a versatile and dynamic winger, primarily deployed on the left flank. Known for his speed, technical ability, dribbling, and intelligence on the pitch, he can operate as:

• Winger (left/right)
• Supporting forward
• Attacking midfielder (playmaker)
• False 9

His low center of gravity, agility, and flair allow him to beat defenders, create space, and contribute both offensively and defensively.

Goal Celebration

Faisal is known for celebrating goals in homage to his football idol, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Controversies

Offensive Remarks

In July 2023, Faisal received a four-month suspension by the Football Association of Malaysia for comments made to the media, later reduced to one month with a probation period of 12 months.

Acid Attack

On 5 May 2024, Faisal was attacked with acid outside a shopping mall, suffering severe burns and requiring multiple surgeries. The incident garnered national attention and support from notable figures, including former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

Personal Life

Faisal is married to Nur Syazwani Mizuana Shahril, and the couple has one child, Khalish Aryan Faisal.

Footballer Faisal Halim’s wife files for divorce at Klang Syariah court. The wife of football star Faisal Halim filed for divorce at the Klang Syariah lower court earlier today Sep 2, 2025.

The filing was confirmed by lawyers Datuk Akberdin Abdul Kader and Puteri Ummi Kartini Abd Latiff, who represented the 27-year-old Selangor captain during mention proceedings this afternoon.

Akberdin said Faisal, who was the victim of an acid attack at a mall last year, was notified of the divorce application by the lawyer representing his wife, Nur Syazwani Mizuana Shahril.

Honors and Achievements

Faisal Halim continues to be one of Malaysia’s most promising and dynamic football talents, combining skill, determination, and resilience both on and off the field.