PM congratulates Harimau Malaya on third place effort, but says 'no special holiday'
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim congratulated the national football team, Harimau Malaya, for securing third place in the FIFA Asean Cup 2026. Despite the victory, the Prime Minister clarified that no public holiday would be declared for the occasion.
Why it matters
The announcement manages public expectations regarding national celebrations and highlights the government's stance on productivity versus sporting achievements.
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim congratulated Harimau Malaya on their success in defeating Vietnam, thereby securing third place in the FIFA Asean Cup 2026.
The Prime Minister said the success also witnessed the national squad ending their campaign in the tournament undefeated and without conceding a single goal.
"Thank you to all the players and the coaching staff for their dedication and fighting spirit for the badge on the chest," he said via a Facebook post Monday (Oct 5).
The Prime Minister also offered words of encouragement to the national squad to keep moving forward and fighting to bring glory to the country.
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