5 Things Only Malaysians Who Watch Football Are Crazy Enough To Do

 Written by Nanthini Suresh

We’ve all heard of how hyper dedicated fans of anything popular can be. But none of them are as hardcore as football fans, especially Malaysians, who throughout the history of the sport have done some crazy things all for the sake of supporting their favourite teams and enjoying the sport with like-minded people.

If you don’t believe us, let’s look at some of the (pre-MCO) things Malaysians were willing to do for the sport they love:

1. They’re willing to sit through horrendous traffic to catch a match at their favourite mamak

If you live in areas like Bangsar or Sunway, we’re pretty sure you’ve come across heavy traffic on nights where there’s a big football match happening. There’s not much you can do but sit in the jam until you pass it, unless you’re also on the way to a popular makan spot to watch the match too.

2. They arrive a few hours before the match to ‘chup’ a good table

Malaysian football fans are an extremely patient bunch who will show up at a mamak or any other venue that broadcasts live football matches to book a good table with a good view. If you were ever looking for a late-night mamak snack during football season, we suggest you just tapau your food and eat at home.

3. They can stay up super late and still go to work the next day or take MC

In fact, some of them don’t even sleep. The ones who cannot be bothered to go to work the next day will just apply for medical leave or emergency leave on the eve of a big football match. Speaking from experience, ahem.

It’s a good thing UEFA EURO 2020 is happening during FMCO! We can sneak in some short naps while we work from home after catching a late-night game. 😛

4. They can debate better than a professional debate team

God forbid if you ever disagree with a kiasu Malaysian football fan’s opinion on the game, or their favourite team. Even if you have some knowledge of football and you’re looking to argue with a hardcore fan, you’ll most likely be on the losing side because they will spew out all the facts, statistics and even history of the game just to prove you wrong. Just don’t argue with them.

5. Switching their phones off during a match so no one can kacau them

It can get quite annoying when your friend, boss calls or girlfriend you during a big football match. It especially doesn’t help when your boss calls you after working hours during MCO just because he knows you have your work laptop with you. Well, to remedy that, some Malaysians resort to switching off their mobile phones during a match so that no one can disturb them! NO. ONE.

For Malaysian, Football Matches are celebration. Many are waiting for the moment to MCO ends and get back to Mamak restaurant to watch the games.