KUALA LUMPUR — The Fifa Asean Cup 2026 kicks off this week with Malaysia looking to turn a new chapter into a fresh start as the Harimau Malaya seek to rebuild confidence and show they can still mix it with South-east Asia’s big guns.

Malaysia have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Indonesia, Bangladesh and Singapore for the inaugural Division 1 tournament, which will be played in Jakarta and Bandung from September 25 to October 5.

Interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe’s side open their campaign against Bangladesh at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on Friday before facing traditional rivals Indonesia at the same venue on Monday.

They then wrap up their group campaign against Singapore at the Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung on October 1.

Adding intrigue to Malaysia’s campaign is the arrival of new naturalised and heritage players Bergson da Silva, Manuel Hidalgo and Brad Tapp, giving Cheng Hoe more options and attacking dimensions.

Bergson brings experience and a proven eye for goal, while Tapp is expected to add strength and balance in midfield. Hidalgo, meanwhile, offers another attacking option on the flank with his pace and ability to create chances.

Their arrival does not guarantee Malaysia a deep run, but it certainly gives Cheng Hoe more pieces to work with as he navigates three group matches in the space of a week.