The Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) latest #BreakTheChain episode sends the message of unity and solidarity to communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and to those preparing for the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Khaled Al Harban, the Bahrain Women’s team head coach, Vietnam’s Nguyen Minh Tri, who plays for the country’s most successful futsal club Thai Son Nam, and China PR’s and Shanghai SIPG forward Li Shenglong are the latest to throw their support behind the public awareness campaign.

They are among 100 Asian stars and officials who have lend their voices to urge people to stay calm and to practice the strict health and hygiene guidelines by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Al Harban urged for more people to do their part by showing kindness and compassion during Ramadan.

“I would like to wish those observing the Holy month of Ramadan to have a blessed month. It will be different than what we are accustomed to because of the pandemic, so we must stay patient and continue to follow the guidelines by the World Health Organization.

“Let’s take time to reflect on the countless blessings that we have and if we can, to help those who require assistance. The world is facing something which we’ve never experienced before but we can overcome this together. Stay safe, stay healthy and let’s break the chain together.”

Minh Tri, who won the 2016 Vietnam Silver Ball in Futsal, added: “This is a challenging time. The COVID-19 has affected everyone’s daily lives. Schools are closed and businesses are struggling, but we continue to persevere under pressure. We are all in this together and must stand united against this pandemic.

“We are restricted from doing a lot of things but there are many ways to overcome this. I see many people using technology to connect with family and friends, and even teachers are conducting classes online. It is remarkable to see that even with controlled movements, we can rise to the occasion. Please stay patient and listen to the advice of the medical experts.”

Among the Asian icons who have joined the AFC’s #BreakTheChain campaign so far include Australia and Chelsea FC star Samantha Kerr, IR Iran’s goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, China PR’s Wu Lei and the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 record goal scorer, Almoez Ali of Qatar