"Well, I think it’s proof of what football can do, bring together different countries, politicians, friends and everybody.

 “I think this is the spirit of football, and we’re very thankful that the parliamentarians were so kind to offer this space where the three countries Canada, Mexico, and the US could have a friendly match with them in this specific place that is so meaningful for Malaysia, where the nation was born, so it’s a great place,” he told reporters.

Meanwhile, Chargé d'Affaires at the US Embassy in Malaysia, David H. Gamble Jr, described football as a powerful diplomatic tool capable of connecting people from different backgrounds.

He also said the sport serves as a common language that transcends differences and creates lasting friendships.

"Sports diplomacy is fantastic and the United States Embassy, we love sports diplomacy because we can go all over Malaysia. No matter what language you speak and where you live, you can get on the field and just enjoy playing games,” he said.

In the meantime, High Commissioner for Canada in Malaysia Jodi Robinson echoed similar sentiments, describing the match as an opportunity to celebrate both football and the strong relationship between Canada and Malaysia.

MPFC captain and Subang MP Wong Chen said the football team itself is an example of how sport can unite people despite political differences and build relationships beyond Parliament.

Among the Malaysian MPs who played in the friendly match were Deputy Economy Minister and Paya Besar MP Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah, Ledang MP Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh and Kuala Krau MP Kamal Ashaari.

At press time, MPFC were leading the diplomats' side 3-2. 

-- BERNAMA