Harimau Malaya Footballer Who Played in 1972 Olympics Now Broke & Forgotten in Penang Nursing Home

Krishnasamy Veloo was once dubbed a hero alongside his fellow Harimau Malaya footballers after they qualified for the 1972 Munich Olympics, marking the first time the Malaysian football team was eligible to participate in the internationally renowned sporting event.

Even though they lost to West Germany (3-0) and Morocco (6-0), they beat the United States (3-0) and put our country on the map for having a football team no one should mess with.

Source: chedinsphere

Midfielder Krishasamy was benched throughout the games with West Germany and Morocco, but he played during the game against the United States where the team won 3-0. But, where is Krishnasamy now?

The 71-year-old is now living in an old folks home in Penang that charges a monthly fee of RM1,100, something he can barely afford. The toes on his left leg, which served as his best weapon during his many years on the field have now been amputated due to diabetes, while his eyesight and hearing are slowly failing him.

Source: nst

Krishnasamy chose to not buy a house earlier on in his career as he and his family were staying in governmental quarters, as reported by New Straits Times. Now, his wife, whose health is also declining, is staying with their daughter while their other children, unfortunately, are unable to care for him as they have their own families.

Throughout his career as a footballer, Krishnasamy also played for the Penang Indian Association and the Waterfall Rangers, and he represented Penang in the Burnley Cup.

Source: chedinsphere

Fortunately, the Football Association of Malaysia has given him some assistance while the National Athlete Welfare Foundation (YAKEB) has vowed to help as well.

However, it’s truly sad to see his suffering considering his contribution to putting Malaysia on the international stage.

If you would like to extend a helping hand, Krishnasamy can be contacted at +6017-555 5294. 

Also read: This OKU M’sian Cleans Public Toilet to Support His Family, Skips Meals to Pay Mum’s Medical Bills