PETALING JAYA: Eight years ago in Kuala Lumpur, national Under-23 defensive midfielder Ahmad Haziq Kutty Abba sat in the stands at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, watching the Harimau Muda take on Thailand in the 2017 SEA Games football final.
Malaysia fell 0-1 to Thailand and settled for silver, but the Penang-born player left the stadium deeply inspired, especially because his brother, Syamer Kutty Abba, was part of the starting XI that night.
“Even though we didn’t win gold, that remains one of my best memories. Seeing my brother fighting in that final was incredible from the stands, and it inspired me to become the player I am today,” said the 21-year-old.
Haziq is now part of the 23-man squad heading to the Thailand SEA Games, where Malaysia will open their Group B campaign against Laos at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok tomorrow.
Laos began their group fixtures with a surprising 1-2 loss to Vietnam, a result considered an upset given their reputation as regional underdogs.
Haziq watched that match and believes Laos have improved significantly in recent years, driven by emerging talents such as striker Peter Phantavong and midfielder Damoth Thongkhamsavath.
“Yes, our preparations have faced some challenges because of the weather, and a few players couldn’t join camp earlier due to club commitments. But everyone in the squad is focused on giving their best,” he said.
“Technically and tactically, Laos have improved, and we have to acknowledge that. We respect them and will not underestimate them. We know we need to give our maximum to get the win.”
As the enforcer, Haziq is expected to anchor the team with his work rate and discipline. This season, he has earned valuable minutes with Penang in both the Super League and FA Cup.
Across all competitions, he has made eight appearances for the Panthers, and under coach Nafuzi Zain, he featured in two matches during the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers. Since making his debut in 2023, he has collected seven caps for Harimau Muda.
“Things have gone well for me. I’m still learning and trying to improve to become a better player.”
To grow, he doesn’t have to look far - his brother Syamer, one of the country’s top defensive midfielders with 42 caps for Harimau Malaya and a key playerfor Kuala Lumpur, is always ready to guide his younger brother.
“Abang Syamer keeps his advice simple, just like his style of play. He told me to stay positive and make the most of every opportunity. I’ll do whatever it takes to help our nation succeed at the Games.”
