Black canvas, heavy security guard Harimau Malaya in Jakarta

Jakarta is tightening security measures for Harimau Malaya, the Malaysian football team, as they prepare to face Bangladesh in the FIFA Asean Cup opener on September 27. Although the hosts, Indonesia, are the focus, Malaysia's interest has also grown due to local support and media attention. Security personnel are stationed at the team hotel entrance and on each floor where the players reside, limiting access to prevent disruptions.

The team's training ground has been covered with black canvas to keep tactical preparations confidential. Media covering Harimau Malaya are granted a brief window for photographs before training resumes behind closed doors.

FAM president Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan expressed confidence in the FA of Indonesia (PSSI) to ensure the team's safety and comfort, stating that it is the hosts' responsibility. PSSI assured that they will take necessary measures, including security, to ensure visiting teams are well cared for in Indonesia. The safety of visiting teams is a priority for the hosts, and Ghani refrained from making assumptions about Indonesia, acknowledging the sensitivities surrounding the fixture.

Malaysia will face Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on September 28 in a highly anticipated Group A match. Security is a significant concern due to the off-pitch incidents from their previous meeting in September 2019, when the Malaysian team had to leave the stadium in an armored vehicle before returning to their hotel.