PETALING JAYA: The Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM) have urged fans to refrain from making extreme criticisms on social media, which could heavily impact the psyche of players and their loved ones.
In a strongly worded statement on their platform yesterday, they said social media provide sports fans with opportunities to interact with football players and share their opinions directly.
However, this development has also opened the door to a concerning culture of cyberbullying. Malaysian football players and their families often become targets of extreme criticism, which damages their emotional and mental well-being.
This comes after national goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli, who made a mistake in the 0-1 defeat against Thailand in the AFF Cup last weekend, was heavily criticised by fans. His wife Eyra Hazali revealed that some even wished he was paralysed.
“Cyberbullying can take many forms, including harsh comments, threats, and defamation on social media. This issue becomes more apparent when players or teams experience defeats,” said the statement.
“For instance, national football players frequently receive harsh, personal criticism when they fail to secure victories in crucial matches. Not only the players but also their families are unjustly targeted.
“This problem negatively impacts the mental health of football players, lowering their self-confidence and disrupting their focus during matches.
“Even family members, who are not directly involved, suffer emotionally when subjected to such abuse. In some cases, players are forced to deactivate their social media accounts to protect themselves from overwhelming stress.”
FIFPro, the international body representing professional football players worldwide, highlighted in their “FIFPro Workplace Safety Report (2023)” that the growing threat of cyberbullying has severely affected 90% of players competing in major tournaments.
The report said that cyber threats go beyond negative comments, extending to physical threats and harm directed at players’ families.
FIFPro remain committed to implementing measures to protect players, including real-time monitoring and reporting technologies to address online abuse more effectively.
PFAM said football fans must understand that players are human beings who deserve respect.
“Positive support and constructive criticism are far more beneficial than insults or threats.
“Through collective efforts, cyberbullying targeting football players and their families can be reduced, fostering a healthier and more harmonious sports environment in Malaysia.
“PFAM urge all football supporters to be mindful of their words, whether in stadiums or on social media. Criticise with manners and respect; do not involve families or wish harm upon others. Remember, players are humans with feelings too.”
