From Amateur to Pro: LPNS Anchors Negeri Sembilan’s Football Ecosystem

Negeri Sembilan is set to take a significant step forward in football development with the introduction of the Liga Premier Negeri Sembilan (LPNS), scheduled to begin in March 2026. The initiative, announced by Faliq Firdaus, Chief Executive Officer of Negeri Sembilan FC, reflects a long-term commitment to building a sustainable and structured football ecosystem in the state.

According to Faliq, the league has already attracted interest from nearly 27 teams, despite the organisers initially targeting a maximum of 20 participating sides. The strong response highlights the demand for a structured competitive platform at the semi-professional and amateur levels within Negeri Sembilan.

A Flagship A3-Level Tournament

LPNS will be conducted as an A3-tier league over a three-month period, with matches hosted at the PBNS Training Centre in Rahang, Seremban. The league is supported by the Negeri Sembilan Youth and Sports Development Office, reinforcing the state government’s role in grassroots football advancement.

Importantly, LPNS is positioned as the flagship tournament under the Negeri Sembilan Football Association, or Persatuan Bolasepak Negeri Sembilan (PBNS), serving as a central development platform beneath the state’s professional setup.

Clear Division of Roles: NSFC and PBNS

Faliq explained that Negeri Sembilan FC and PBNS have reached a clear mutual understanding in their respective roles within the state football structure.

  • Negeri Sembilan FC will focus on elite talent identification and development, guiding players toward the professional level, including the Malaysia Super League.
  • PBNS, meanwhile, will concentrate on grassroots organisation, competition management, and long-term development programmes, beginning in 2026.

This structured separation ensures that development pathways are clearly defined, avoiding overlap while strengthening the overall football ecosystem.

Broadcast, Commercial Value and Spillover Effects

LPNS matches will be broadcast live via Pay-Per-View through NSFC Development, providing visibility not only for teams and players but also for sponsors, scouts, and stakeholders.

Faliq highlighted the spillover effects of running a structured league annually, particularly in attracting investment, improving player standards, and stimulating football-related economic activity at the local level.

Opening Global Pathways for Young Talent

One of the league’s most forward-looking proposals is the potential allowance for each team to register one import player aged 18–23. This initiative could:

  • Open Negeri Sembilan to the global youth football market
  • Encourage colleges and universities to offer combined academic scholarships and football opportunities
  • Provide affordable import options for local clubs, which NSFC could later scout and develop further

This model mirrors successful development ecosystems seen in other footballing regions.

Education, Licensing and Player Mobility

All LPNS teams will receive education on FAM’s MyPAS system, ensuring that every registered player holds a formal player licence. With proper licensing in place:

  • Player transfers can occur legitimately where applicable
  • Clubs can operate within amateur, semi-professional, or professional frameworks
  • Player value and mobility are formally recognised within the system

The initiative aims to professionalise football operations even at the amateur level.

Building the Bridge to Higher Leagues

Faliq emphasised that platforms must exist at the amateur level to allow more semi-professional and professional clubs to emerge from Negeri Sembilan. LPNS is designed as a development bridge to A3, A2 and A1 leagues, with future possibilities including Malaysia Super League clubs loaning players into lower tiers for competitive development.

“PBNS organises, NSFC supports,” Faliq stressed, adding that state football development should be driven by the association, not by individuals or external parties.

A Long-Term Football Ecosystem

Ultimately, the Liga Premier Negeri Sembilan is more than just a competition. It is a strategic ecosystem—one that connects grassroots football, education, international exposure, player licensing, and professional progression under a unified structure.

As Faliq concluded succinctly: “It’s an ecosystem.”

Creating Pathways, Not Promises: NSFC’s Vision for Youth Development

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) has taken another significant step in strengthening its youth development ecosystem with the launch of NextGen Development Camp 1.0, a structured elite training programme designed specifically for promising young footballers.

Announced by NSFC Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus, the camp is an initiative under the NSFC Development (nsfc1923devt) framework, reflecting the club’s long-term commitment to identifying, nurturing, and professionally preparing the next generation of players.

A Professional, High-Intensity Development Environment

Scheduled to run from 17 to 23 January 2026, the week-long programme will be held at the PBNS Training Centre, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. Although compact in duration, the camp is designed to be intensive and highly structured—mirroring the daily training environment of a professional football club.

Participants will undergo elite-level training sessions that focus on technical development, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, and professionalism both on and off the pitch. All aspects of the programme are fully organised, managed, and subsidised by NSFC, underlining the club’s investment in grassroots and youth progression.

Individual Performance Reports for Every Participant

One of the key highlights of NextGen Development Camp 1.0 is its emphasis on personalised development. Upon completion of the camp, every participant will receive an Individual Performance Report, offering detailed feedback on their strengths, areas for improvement, and overall development potential. This provides young players with valuable insight into their current level and a clearer roadmap for future progression.

Exposure to State League Coaches and Scouts

In a move that bridges development with real-world opportunity, coaches and talent scouts from Liga A1, Liga A2, and Liga A3 (Liga Premier Negeri Sembilan) will be invited to observe the camp. This allows standout participants to gain meaningful exposure within the Negeri Sembilan football ecosystem, reinforcing the camp’s role as part of the broader pre-season preparation framework for the Liga Premier Negeri Sembilan, which is set to begin in March 2026.

Diverse and Competitive Participant Pool

The camp is open to players aged 18 to 20, with a total intake of 31 outfield players and four goalkeepers. Participation is open to both Malaysian and non-Malaysian players, and interest has already been strong. According to Faliq Firdaus, four non-Malaysian import players have confirmed their places, with some participants also possessing national youth team experience, ensuring a competitive and high-quality training environment.

Building the Future, One Programme at a Time

While clearly stated as an exposure programme and football clinic—not a direct player selection session—NextGen Development Camp 1.0 represents an important pillar in NSFC’s long-term football strategy. It reflects the club’s belief that sustainable success begins with structured development, transparent assessment, and strong integration between youth pathways and competitive state leagues.

With this initiative, Negeri Sembilan FC continues to position itself as a club that invests not only in present results, but in the future of football in Negeri Sembilan.

Young players with ambition, discipline, and the hunger to improve are encouraged to step forward and be part of this elite development experience.

Motika Set to Stay as Negeri Sembilan FC Explore Midfield Option

Negeri Sembilan FC have moved to clarify speculation surrounding the future of Jovan Motika, with the club reaffirming that the midfielder remains a key part of their long-term plans.

According to T. Avineshwaran of The Star, despite recent transfer rumours, Motika is expected to stay on with Negeri Sembilan FC, with management confident in his role within the club’s future project.

The report comes amid online chatter sparked by a social media post that led to speculation over Motika’s status. However, club sources have since played down any uncertainty, stressing continuity and stability as core pillars of Negeri Sembilan’s squad planning.

Meanwhile, attention has also turned to the club’s midfield options, with Oday Kharoub emerging as a potential addition. Avineshwaran reported that discussions between the player and the club are progressing positively, with Kharoub viewed as a possible replacement for Alex Agyarkwa in the centre of the park.

Should the move materialise, it would represent a measured step by Negeri Sembilan to strengthen their midfield while maintaining balance within the squad. The combination of retaining established figures like Motika and exploring targeted reinforcements underlines the club’s intent to build sustainably rather than react impulsively to rumours.

As the transfer window unfolds, Negeri Sembilan FC are expected to continue prioritising clarity, long-term planning and squad cohesion—key elements in supporting their ambitions for the seasons ahead.

Nidzam Jamil Hails Commitment and Positive Attitude After Convincing Win Over Kelantan

Head coach Negeri Sembilan FC, Nidzam Jamil, praised the high level of commitment and positive mindset shown by his players following their 2-0 victory over Kelantan TRW FC in the Malaysia Super League at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, on Tuesday night.

The 45-year-old tactician said the win was a clear response to the 1-1 draw against Kuala Lumpur City FC at the same venue last Saturday, with his squad displaying greater fighting spirit and a marked improvement in performance.

“Tonight, the team performed much better compared to the match against KL City four days ago. Even the substitutes such as Anwar Ibrahim, An Sang Su and Harith Samsuri came in and delivered commendable performances,” said Nidzam in his post-match remarks.

He added that the positive momentum carried into the second half allowed Negeri Sembilan to score a crucial second goal, despite Kelantan increasing their intensity in an attempt to disrupt the home side’s dominance.

“They tried to raise their tempo to stop our control of the game, but we defended well and continued to push forward. I’m pleased with this victory because the players executed the game plan exactly as we had prepared,” he said.

National striker Luqman Hakim Shamsudin was the standout performer, netting both goals in the 36th and 49th minutes to secure all three points for the Hobin Jang Hobin side.

Nidzam also explained the late change in the attacking lineup involving Joseph Esso and Mio Tsuneyasu, revealing that Esso was not fully fit to lead the frontline.

According to the head coach, Tsuneyasu’s aggressive approach had an immediate positive impact, unsettling Kelantan’s defence while effectively linking up play with Luqman Hakim and Jovan Motika in attack.

The result underlined Negeri Sembilan FC’s growing confidence and cohesion as they look to build momentum in the second half of the season.

Motika’s ‘Last Dance’ Sparks Transfer Talk, NSFC CEO Clarifies Club Position

Speculation surrounding Jovan Motika intensified over the past 24 hours after a social media post showing his No.9 jersey labelled “Last dance” circulated widely, prompting talk that the Serbian forward may be nearing the end of his stint with Negeri Sembilan FC.

The discussion gained further traction following commentary from local football platform 433Malaysia, which suggested that, based on form and age, Motika remains a capable scorer and that his reduced usage could indicate the club is already planning ahead for the second half of the Malaysia League season. The narrative was amplified after Motika featured against Kelantan TRW FC, with some interpreting the appearance as a potential farewell outing.

Responding on X (formerly Twitter), Negeri Sembilan FC Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus addressed the speculation directly. Thanking Motika for his contribution, the CEO wrote: “Thank you JM9 for the collective effort today.”

When asked by a supporter whether Motika would still be part of NSFC moving forward, Faliq clarified: “Masih. Semalam last dance dio for 2025,” indicating that the match marked Motika’s final appearance for the club in the 2025 calendar year, rather than an immediate departure.

Further rumours linking Motika with a move to Selangor FC were also addressed. In response to a fan suggesting that the Selangor speculation “had some basis,” Faliq dismissed the claim succinctly, stating: “Tidak. We thank him and other players for playing as a team.”

At this stage, the club’s stance points to appreciation and professionalism rather than confirmation of an imminent transfer. While Motika’s “last dance” post has understandably sparked debate among supporters, NSFC’s leadership has emphasised collective effort and unity, leaving any future decisions to be handled through official channels.

For now, Jovan Motika remains part of Negeri Sembilan FC’s story in 2025—his contribution acknowledged, his status clarified, and the club firmly focused on team-first values amid ongoing speculation.

MSL 25/26: Negeri Sembilan FC Versus JDT FC Ticket Sales Info

Tickets for the Malaysia Super League 25/26 match between Negeri Sembilan FC and Johor Darul Ta’zim FC on 9 January 2026 at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi will be on sale!

Click the link below to purchase:

https://tickethotline.com.my/events/NSFCvsJDT

Choose Pintu A, Pintu B, or Pintu C sections only for home fans.

Physical Ticket Sales Information – MSL 25/26

Tickets are now available at the following locations:

🏢 Wisma PBNS
📅 29–31 December 2025, 2–9 January 2026
(Daily except weekends and public holidays)
🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Break: 1:00–2:00 PM | Friday: 12:00–2:45 PM

🏟️ STAR Paroi
🛍️ Warrix Matchday Store
• 7 January 2026 (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
• 8 January 2026 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• 9 January 2026 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

🎫 Ticket Counter 13
📆 9 January 2026
🕔 5:00 PM – 9:45 PM

ℹ️ Tickets for away supporters will be sold online only.

9 January. Wear yellow. Fill Paroi.
Together, let us #KuningkanParoi.

Luqman Hakim Double Seals First-Round Finale Victory for Negeri Sembilan

Negeri Sembilan FC wrapped up the final match of the first round of the Malaysia Super League on a high, securing a convincing 2–0 victory over Kelantan TRW FC at the Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman earlier today.

Forward Luqman Hakim Shamsudin emerged as the hero for the Hobin Jang Hobin side, scoring both goals to deliver the team’s fourth win of the season.

The rescheduled fixture—originally set to be played in Kota Bharu but moved due to weather conditions—was fully capitalised on by Negeri Sembilan, who claimed all three points for the first time since their 2–0 home win over PDRM FC on 25 October.

From the opening whistle, both teams showed attacking intent, trading early pressure in an open and energetic contest. Head coach Nidzam Jamil opted to start Japanese forward Mio Tsuneyasu, usually deployed as a super-sub, while resting Joseph Esso. The decision paid dividends, with Mio playing a proactive role up front and helping to create several promising moves, particularly in the opening 30 minutes.

Negeri Sembilan’s determination was rewarded in the 36th minute when Luqman Hakim latched onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Jovan Motika, calmly slotting past Kelantan goalkeeper Azfar Arif Mohd Shukri to give the home side the lead.

The goal further lifted the spirits of the Rusa squad, who continued to press and dominate proceedings until the interval.

Early in the second half, Negeri Sembilan doubled their advantage. A defensive lapse saw Azfar Arif fail to clear the ball outside his penalty area, allowing Luqman Hakim to pounce, race through on goal, and tap home his second of the night in the 49th minute.

Despite trailing, Kelantan—led by head coach Akmal Rizal Ahmad Rakhli—pushed forward in search of a response, carving out several chances. However, they were unable to find a breakthrough as Negeri Sembilan’s defence held firm until the final whistle.

The victory delighted the 3,205 supporters in attendance, as Negeri Sembilan FC closed the first round of the season with renewed confidence and momentum.

Faliq Firdaus: “We’re Not Fully Satisfied, Improvements Are Already in Motion”

Negeri Sembilan FC chief executive officer Faliq Firdaus has reiterated the club’s firm ambition to compete at a higher level, despite salvaging a late result against Kuala Lumpur FC in the recent Malaysia Super League fixture.

Speaking to OhMedia after the match, Faliq admitted that while the team managed to recover in the closing stages, the overall feeling within the club was one of dissatisfaction.

“Honestly, we are not satisfied. We came into the match with a winning mentality,” he said. “As management, our mindset is always to win. But given the circumstances, we had to accept the result — even though it wasn’t what we truly wanted.”

Clear Standards and Honest Self-Assessment

Faliq stressed that the club’s leadership is fully aware of the team’s current shortcomings. According to him, recent performances have provided clarity on areas that require immediate improvement, particularly as the season progresses beyond the mid-point.

“We already know where the problems are,” he explained. “The management and leadership are aligned on this. There is no denial — we have identified what needs to be fixed, and we are working on it.”

Squad Reinforcements on the Horizon

Addressing questions about squad strengthening, Faliq confirmed that reinforcements are part of the club’s plans, including players with experience from high-level leagues.

“There will be improvements to the squad,” he said. “Some players are already being identified, including those with experience in competitive environments like the J-League pathway. But at this moment, we cannot reveal names.”

He added that when the time is right, supporters will be the first to know.

“InsyaAllah, when everything is finalised, we will share the details. Our supporters deserve transparency, but we must follow the proper process.”

Trust, Patience and Direction

While acknowledging fan expectations, Faliq called for continued trust and patience as the club executes its long-term vision.

“This is a process. We are building with a clear direction, not reacting emotionally to one match,” he said. “What’s important is that the club remains honest about its standards and committed to improving.”

The message from the top is clear: Negeri Sembilan FC may have taken a point, but complacency is not an option. The club’s leadership remains focused on strengthening the team and ensuring performances on the pitch match the ambition off it.

NSFC Lays Out Clear Pathway for Youth Football Development Ahead of 2026

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to grassroots and youth development with a comprehensive plan aimed at strengthening the club’s footballing pipeline, as outlined by Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus in a recent Facebook post.

The announcement follows the successful completion of the 2025 training cycle for the NSFC Under-12 (B-12) squad, marking another important milestone in the club’s growing youth programme.

Gradual, Sustainable Growth at Grassroots Level

Faliq highlighted that 2025 represents the second year of structured training for NSFC’s B-10 and B-12 squads, based at the PBNS Training Centre in Rahang. The club has adopted a phased approach to development, balancing ambition with financial sustainability.

After training once a week in their inaugural year, the squads progressed to twice-weekly sessions this season. Looking ahead, NSFC plans to increase training frequency to three sessions per week in 2026.

“This gradual improvement reflects our commitment to building properly, in line with the club’s financial capabilities,” Faliq noted, emphasising long-term stability over short-term results.

Strong Talent Pathway to Elite Programmes

Several players from the current youth setup are expected to progress into elite development programmes, including Akademi Mokhtar Dahari (AMD) and Sekolah Sukan Negeri (SSN), underlining the effectiveness of NSFC’s grassroots framework.

The club believes this transition is a key indicator of success, proving that local talent can be nurtured systematically and compete at national development levels.

NSFC Football School to Launch in Seremban

As part of its next phase, NSFC will establish an official NSFC Football School in Seremban before expanding to other districts across Negeri Sembilan. The initiative aims to create a structured “grassroots-to-elite” pathway, offering young players aged B-10 to B-12 a clear route into the club’s elite squads.

Parents interested in NSFC’s coaching methodology will be able to enrol their children at the training centre through a monthly fee-based programme, widening access while maintaining coaching standards.

Strengthening the Academy Structure

NSFC also plans to place its head youth coach within the B-17 team at Sekolah Sukan Negeri Za’ba, as part of a long-term strategy to elevate the school into an official NSFC Academy partner in stages.

Once the programme is fully established, the club intends to expand further into the B-14 age group, completing a more comprehensive development ladder.

These initiatives will be overseen by Technical Director Efendi Malek, whose leadership is expected to play a central role in shaping the club’s future generation of players.

Looking Ahead

Faliq concluded by acknowledging that challenges and shortcomings are inevitable in any development process, offering an apology for any gaps encountered throughout the year. Nevertheless, he expressed optimism that 2026 will be a pivotal year for NSFC’s youth development programme.

With a clearer structure, stronger pathways, and a commitment to gradual improvement, Negeri Sembilan FC continues to lay solid foundations for the future of football in the state.

“Jumpa tahun depan,” he signed off — a confident message that the best is yet to come.

NSFC U-10 & U-12 Year 2025 Appreciation Ceremony

The NSFC U-10 & U-12 Appreciation Ceremony was held in a meaningful and heartfelt atmosphere at Ruang Rehat 1923, Wisma PBNS, as a tribute to the commitment, discipline, and dedication shown by our young players throughout their development journey.

Our sincere thanks to all players, coaches, parents, and everyone involved who continue to be the backbone of Negeri Sembilan FC’s grassroots development.