PETALING JAYA: Faisal Halim is not looking back anymore – only forward, with fire in his belly and focus in his eyes.

The 27-year-old winger, affectionately known as Mickey, is raring to go for Malaysia’s upcoming international assignments.

First, the two friendlies against Cape Verde on May 29 and June 6, and then, the crunch 2027 Asian Cup third-round qualifier against Vietnam at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on June 10.

A year ago, the Selangor player faced one of the darkest chapters of his life where he was a victim of an acid attack but recovered valiantly to return to the game he loves.

Man on a mission: Faisal Halim is ready to reclaim his rhythm and reignite his influence for Harimau Malaya. — FAM

Now, he’s ready to reclaim his rhythm and reignite his influence for Harimau Malaya.

“The feeling is humbling,” said Faisal, reflecting on his return to national duty for the second time since Peter Cklamovski’s appointment in January.

“Coach Peter always tells me to give 100%, not 50-50. I always tell him, I’m ready. I’m spirited now to get back to my usual form.”

Faisal, who last featured for Malaysia in Marchwhen they beat Nepal 2-0 in the qualifiers, admitted the journey back hasn’t been easy, but it’s been necessary.

“This one year has been a lesson. Things happened, but now it’s time to focus on my career. This phase now is about recouping what I’ve lost. I want to get my rhythm again.”

And he isn’t taking anything for granted.

“It’s not a burden,” he said of the responsibility he shoulders.

“I give my best and I hope the coach sees what I can contribute. I’ve got no problem, I’ll fight and play according to the coach’s plans. My focus is to give my best performance and help Harimau Malaya.”

Under Cklamovski, the national team are aiming to build momentum heading into the clash against Vietnam, a side Malaysia have struggled against in recent years.

The friendly against Cape Verde, ranked No. 75 in the world, is seen as a good test.

“What the coach told us is that our focus is on Vietnam,” said Faisal.

“So, it’s apt to take on a higher-ranked team like Cape Verde in a friendly. By doing so, we’ll know where we stand and what we need to improve on.”

Faisal also touched on the early days of training in Johor Baru, where intensity has been ramped up.

“The first week in JB was crucial after a long break. We were all well rested but when we returned, training was tough. But that’s no excuse, we have to be ready for any kind of intensity. What we do in training must be replicated in the game.”

Despite a rocky past year, Faisal’s words reflect the grit of a player who has turned pain into purpose.

As the nation holds its breath for the big games ahead, Mickey is quietly but confidently preparing for a comeback Malaysia can believe in.