KUALA LUMPUR: Amid the ongoing controversy over Harimau Malaya's latest heritage recruits, Dutch-born Hector Hevel has silenced the doubters by confirming his Malaysian roots through his grandfather from Melaka.

The 29-year-old midfielder, who made his debut and scored in Malaysia's 2-0 win over Nepal during the Asia Cup qualifiers in March, is delighted to be recalled by coach Peter Cklamovski for the crucial World Cup qualifier against Vietnam on June 10.

"My Malaysian heritage comes from my grandfather — he's from Melaka, so there's no issue," said Hevel.

"I haven't had much connection as many of the family have passed away, but when I play here for JDT, I'll visit and learn more about it."

Hevel has signed with M-League champions Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) for the 2025-26 season.

His statement comes amid mounting pressure on the FA of Malaysia (FAM), with Southeast Asian fans calling on FIFA to investigate the eligibility of the team's recent foreign-born additions, including Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Facundo Garces, Jon Irazabal, and Joao Figueiredo.