Negeri Sembilan FC has reaffirmed its commitment to long-term, sustainable development both on and off the pitch, with Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus providing further clarity on the club’s matchday vision and infrastructure planning at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi.
Addressing supporters through a series of public responses, Faliq explained that while many initiatives are already mapped out, execution must take place gradually. As several of these ideas are still new within the Negeri Sembilan football environment, aligning all stakeholders towards a single direction requires time and careful coordination.
Focus on Stadium Infrastructure: LED and Electrical Systems
One of the immediate upgrades already completed is the installation of a new electrical distribution board (DB) at the stadium. With this foundational electrical work in place, the club’s next target is the phased installation of LED systems inside the stadium bowl, aimed at enhancing presentation, visibility, and the overall matchday atmosphere.
However, Faliq emphasised that all physical upgrades at Paroi remain subject to approval by Majlis Bandaraya Seremban (MBS), which oversees matters related to the stadium and its surrounding areas.
Matchday Activation: Towards #PestaBolaParoi
Beyond physical upgrades, the club is actively exploring ways to elevate the matchday experience into a more vibrant, community-driven occasion. Among the proposals under discussion is branding home matches as #PestaBolaParoi, a concept that could feature rented vendor lots, fan activities around the stadium precinct, and structured parking management.
The objective is to create a carnival-style environment that benefits supporters, local vendors, and small businesses, while also generating a sustainable return on investment. At present, the concept is still under review and has yet to receive final approval.
“There is no final decision yet, but efforts are ongoing,” Faliq noted.
Playing Surface and Long-Term Compliance
Responding to supporter concerns about the playing surface, Faliq confirmed that the Malaysia Football League (MFL)has issued a directive requiring all stadiums to move away from cowgrass by 2027. Negeri Sembilan FC is fully aware of this requirement.
As an immediate step, the club plans to install Zoysia grass at the NSFC Training Centre, before any transition is implemented at Stadium Paroi. According to Faliq, replacing the stadium pitch at this stage would require a full closure of the venue, raising complex questions about temporary home grounds, logistics, and cost.
Stadium Tampin as Contingency Planning
In terms of alternative venues, Stadium Tampin has been identified as the nearest facility that is close to meeting MFL specifications. The stadium has used Bermuda grass since the 2004 SUKMA Games and its playing surface is considered acceptable. However, several technical specifications are still incomplete, although improvements such as new dressing rooms were completed in 2025.
The club is currently working with relevant authorities to address outstanding requirements so that, when Paroi eventually undergoes pitch renovation, Negeri Sembilan FC will not need to relocate matches outside the state.
A Realistic, Step-by-Step Journey
Faliq concluded by stressing that all decisions are guided by realism and sustainability.
“We move gradually and prioritise what is closest to home, which is our training centre. We are not a wealthy club,” he explained, underlining the importance of measured progress rather than rushed solutions.
Through this phased approach, Negeri Sembilan FC continues to balance ambition with responsibility—laying the groundwork for a stronger matchday experience, compliant facilities, and long-term stability for The Jangs.