Anwar: Asean spirit shines as regional All-Stars take on Manchester United in Malaysia

PUTRAJAYA — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said the upcoming friendly match between Manchester United and a team of Asean players symbolises the region’s collective spirit and unity through sport.

He said the Asean side would be led by the Vietnam national football team coach and described the fixture at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, here, as more than just a football match.

“On May 28, as you know, Manchester United is coming here to play against the Asean team, led by the Vietnam national team coach. Unfortunately, he (Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh) will not be able to attend.

“I persuaded him to attend because the showcase is about the Asean spirit going up against Manchester United, which is no easy task. But in any case, I have extended the invitation,” he said.

Anwar was speaking at a joint press conference with Chinh here today.

The Asean All-Stars team will be coached by South Korean Kim Sang Sik, who recently led Vietnam to the 2024 Asean Championship title.