PETALING JAYA: When Moses Raj steps onto the pitch for Malaysia in the AFC Under-23 Asian Cup qualifiers in Thailand, he carries more than a nation’s hopes – he carries his family’s dreams.
For the 20-year-old defender, every stride is driven by a personal promise to ease his family’s burdens and repay the faith of those who believed in him.
A product of Perak, Moses moved to Selangor this season and has quickly risen as one of Malaysia’s brightest young prospects, earning his first Under-23 national call-up under head coach Nafuzi Zain.
“This is my first Under-23 call-up and my first time working with coach Nafuzi,” said Moses.
“I’ve adapted well to his 3-4-3 system and I’m learning a lot from coaches Nafuzi, Hai-O (Hairuddin Omar) and Shukor (Adan).”
But behind his confident performances lies a story of sacrifice. Last year, when his mother’s health began to decline and his father struggled as the family’s sole breadwinner, Moses made a pivotal career decision.
“My family had some problems, especially my mother, who was not feeling too good. My father was the breadwinner and I wanted to help him, so I decided to move to Selangor and ease his commitment.
“Plus, when I was in Perak, there were salary issues,” he explained.
The move not only brought stability but also unlocked new opportunities. Under Selangor’s guidance, Moses matured tactically and mentally, sharpening his versatility across the backline.
“From Perak to Selangor, I learnt a lot from the coaches. I understood their tactics and experience. I learnt from the seniors as well. I believe I can show my ability.”
Moses is no stranger to the international stage, having represented Malaysia Under-19 in 2024 and scoring once during the 2025 AFC Under-20 Asian Cup qualification.
But this step up to the Under-23 is a new challenge – one he is eager to embrace.
“The intensity is different, but I’ll play anywhere I’m needed and repay the trust shown. My target is to help the team qualify for the tournament next year in Saudi Arabia.”
Malaysia will open their Group F campaign against Lebanon at the Thammasat Stadium in Pathum Thani today, before facing Mongolia on Sept 6 and hosts Thailand on Sept 9.
Moses knows the task will be tough, especially against Lebanon.
“Lebanon are a good Middle Eastern team with lots of physicality. They would have prepared well against us. We are preparing to get a win, we will give our all.”
The defender also credits the team’s leadership and spirit for their strong preparation.
“Ubai (Ubaidullah Samsul Fazili) is a good captain. He motivates us well. The mentality of the players is good. Everyone will give their 100% based on the tactics given.”
