KUALA LUMPUR: National forward Safawi Rasid has broken his silence following his sudden departure from the Harimau Malaya centralised training camp.
Safawi insisted that his loyalty to the country remains intact and hinted that pressing family concerns prompted his decision.
Taking to social media, the Terengganu-born winger addressed the swirling rumours regarding his absence, reassuring supporters that he would never turn his back on national duty without valid grounds.
“I didn’t leave the Malaysia camp for no reason. There are things that can be shared and things that cannot be told,” wrote Safawi.
“So far throughout my career, I have never turned down a call-up to represent Malaysia. Donning the black-and-yellow jersey has always been my pride,” he added, signing off with the telling hashtag “#familysafetyfirst”.
Safawi’s cryptic message has only intensified discussions across social media, with fans floating various theories over what might have triggered his abrupt exit.
A section of supporters speculated that the issue could be tied to family matters involving his sister-in-law, who is a well-known public figure, while other quarters suggested that underlying football politics might have influenced the situation.
Neither the FA of Malaysia (FAM) nor the player has provided further elaboration on the specific circumstances, keeping the details strictly private.
The unexpected development comes at a crucial juncture for Harimau Malaya, who are set to test their mettle against Asian giants China on Saturday before concluding their international window against Yemen on Tuesday.