Aqil & Luqman Share Thoughts Ahead of Liga Super 2025/26

In a recent interview session, Negeri Sembilan FC’s key players goalkeeper Aqil Abdul Razak and forward Luqman Hakim opened up about the team’s preparations, personal goals, and the upcoming challenges in the new Liga Super season.

Positive Vibes Under Coach Nidzam Jamil

Both players praised the structured and tactical approach brought in by head coach Nidzam Jamil, highlighting his clear game plans and high training intensity.

“Coach Nidzam focuses a lot on tactical awareness and player roles. Every training session has high intensity,” said Luqman.

“It’s helping the team build strong chemistry, and I feel we’re ready to compete this season.”

Aqil Welcomes Healthy Competition

Aqil shared that the arrival of fellow goalkeeper Azri Ghani motivates him to improve and fight for his spot.

“It’s a good challenge. It pushes me to fix my weaknesses and prove myself to Coach Nidzam.”

He also reflected on a memorable match last season where NSFC played with 10 men against Perak and managed to hold off the opposition, a highlight of his career so far.

Luqman’s Comeback to Malaysia

After years abroad, Luqman returns to Liga M with a renewed focus.

“Competition for spots is tough, but that’s good for me. It helps me improve. I’m here to prove myself and help lift Negeri Sembilan’s name again.”

Though described by teammates as shy off the pitch, Luqman brings fiery energy on the field. Aqil joked about his quiet nature in the locker room but praised his seamless integration into the squad.

Message to Fans

Both players ended with a heartfelt message:

“To all Negeri Sembilan supporters, please come to the stadium and back us this season. Your presence gives us strength,” said Luqman.

“Hobin Jang Hobin! See you in Paroi!” added Aqil.

Watch the interview below:

Takumi Sasaki Shares His Excitement Ahead of the 2025/2026 Season

Negeri Sembilan FC’s Japanese import, Takumi Sasaki, expressed his confidence and excitement as the new season approaches:

“My teammates are great players, I believe we can go far this season,” said Sasaki.

“Our head coach is amazing, and I’m really looking forward to contributing more to the team this year.”

He also delivered a heartfelt message to NSFC supporters:

“We need the power of the fans. We play for the team and for all of you.”

“Please come to the stadium and give us your support. It means everything.”

Watch the video below:

Negeri Sembilan FC: History, Success, Legends & Home of the Jangs

Negeri Sembilan FC, fondly known as NSFC or “The Jangs”, is one of Malaysia’s most historic football clubs, steeped in tradition and pride. Representing the state of Negeri Sembilan, the club has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Malaysian football for nearly a century.

History of Negeri Sembilan FC

The club’s roots date back to the 1923, under the name Negeri Sembilan FA (NSFA). It became a competitive force in Malaysian football through participation in state-level and national tournaments such as the Malaya Cup, which later evolved into the Malaysia Cup.

Throughout the decades, the team has undergone transitions both on and off the pitch. In 2020, as part of Malaysia Football League’s privatization plan, the club was rebranded into Negeri Sembilan Football Club (NSFC), separating it from the state’s football association.

Achievements and Success

NSFC has enjoyed considerable success over the years. Some of their most celebrated achievements include:

  • Malaysia Cup Champions: 🏆 1948, 2009
  • FA Cup Winners: 🏆 2003, 2010
  • Charity Shield (Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Cup): 🏆 2012
  • Premier League Champions: 🏆 2005, 2021

Their 2009 Malaysia Cup win was especially memorable, breaking a long drought by defeating Kelantan 3–1 in front of a packed Bukit Jalil stadium. The 2010 FA Cup win further cemented their revival in Malaysian football.

Legends of Negeri Sembilan FC

Negeri Sembilan FC has produced and attracted many iconic figures in Malaysian football:

  • Hairuddin Omar – Scored in multiple Malaysia Cup finals and captained the club to glory in 2009.
  • Shukor Adan – The legendary captain and defensive general, known for his leadership and longevity in Malaysian football.
  • Mohd Zaquan Adha – A homegrown talent, national team regular, and local hero known for his flair and goal-scoring ability.
  • Mohd Aidil Zafuan – Zaquan’s twin brother and one of Malaysia’s finest defenders, also developed from NSFC’s youth ranks.
  • K. Devan – The coach who led NSFC to its 2009 Malaysia Cup triumph and revitalized the squad.

These players and many others have contributed to the rich legacy of “The Jangs,” capturing the hearts of fans statewide and beyond.

Home Stadium: Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi

The beating heart of Negeri Sembilan FC is their iconic home ground, Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, commonly known as Stadium Paroi.

  • 📍 Location: Paroi, Seremban
  • 🏟️ Capacity: Approximately 45,000 spectators
  • 🏗️ Opened: 1992

This stadium has hosted countless historic matches, including Malaysia Cup and FA Cup finals. It’s known for its passionate atmosphere, where fans clad in yellow and black create an electric environment on matchdays.

The Spirit of the Jangs

Beyond trophies, Negeri Sembilan FC represents identity and community pride. The club has one of the most loyal fanbases in the country, known as Hobin Jang Hobin—a chant that echoes the warrior spirit of the Minangkabau heritage.

From humble beginnings to national glory, Negeri Sembilan FC continues to evolve while staying true to its legacy. As Malaysian football enters a new era, NSFC remains a symbol of tradition, resilience, and ambition.

Hobin Jang Hobin!
Forever Negeri. Forever Football.

Alex Agyarkwa Determined to Repay NSFC’s Trust in 2025/2026 Season

Ghanaian import Alex Agyarkwa is determined to repay the trust shown by Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) management after being handed the opportunity to continue his Malaysia Super League journey for the 2025/2026 season, despite being a loan signing.

The 25-year-old midfielder, who played for Selangor FC last season, has reunited with head coach Nidzam Jamil, the same tactician who once guided the Red Giants. Now on loan with NSFC, Agyarkwa is set for a fresh challenge in Paroi.

“I’m proud to continue my career in the Malaysia Super League with a team coached by Nidzam Jamil, and I’m determined to deliver my best performance throughout the 2025/2026 season,” said Agyarkwa.

“The trust this club has placed in me means a lot, and I will do everything I can to repay it.”

He expressed excitement about joining a squad filled with top local talent and being under the guidance of an experienced coach with a strong reputation in the domestic league.

Agyarkwa’s previous experience playing under Nidzam is expected to help him adapt quickly to the tactical system at NSFC, especially as he’s likely to be tasked with a crucial midfield role.

He is confident in the team’s quality this season compared to the previous one, noting the presence of both experienced players and hungry young talents eager to bring success to the Hobin Jang Hobin squad.

“With the strength we have this season, I believe Negeri Sembilan can offer a stronger challenge in the Super League, FA Cup, and Malaysia Cup.”

“Without a doubt, my teammates and I will give everything to push this team into the top five of the Super League,” he added.

For the record, Agyarkwa joined Selangor FC in 2021, making 64 appearances and contributing 11 assists. Although last season was hampered by injury, he is now looking forward to a strong comeback in Negeri colours.

NSFC Enters New Super League Season with Renewed Spirit and Determination

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) is entering the 2025/2026 Super League season with renewed optimism, confidence, and determination to shed its reputation as an underdog thanks to a more competitive and higher-quality squad.

NSFC Chairman and Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, expressed confidence that the team, under the guidance of Head Coach Nidzam Jamil, is now ready to challenge any opponent in the league.

“I believe with strong leadership, the team will perform more consistently and with greater strength. We’re confident NSFC will emerge as one of the contenders in this season’s Super League,”

“Even though no formal target has been set, we are certain this team is no longer a punching bag,” he told reporters after officiating the NSFC 2025/2026 Jersey Launch and Player Presentation Ceremony, which was also attended by Tunku Syed Razman Tunku Syed Idrus Al-Qadri, the Tunku Besar of Tampin and President of the Negeri Sembilan Football Association (PBNS).

Aminuddin also stated that incentives would be considered for the squad if players display strong professionalism, commitment, and positive performance throughout the season.

He affirmed that the club’s financial standing remains stable, as it was in the previous season, and expressed satisfaction with the team management’s ability to carry out their duties efficiently and without financial issues.

“We’ll make sure this support continues so that players can focus without financial burden. I’m confident the team is well managed through to the end of the season,” he added.

This season’s kit designs reflect Negeri Sembilan’s identity, combining heritage, courage, and new hope.

The Home Kit maintains the traditional red, yellow, and black color scheme of the state, featuring the iconic phrase “Ini Paroi Jangan Main” on the collar — a tribute to the fortress that is Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi.

The jersey is also adorned with the “Bunga Lada” motif, the official state flower, as a cultural element to further reinforce the team’s identity.

The Away Kit carries a message of gratitude to loyal fans, emblazoned with the typography “Sekalian Yang Setia” and detailed in yellow, black, and red.

Meanwhile, Tunku Syed Razman called on all stakeholders to unite for the revival of Negeri Sembilan football. He emphasized that through strategic planning and teamwork, NSFC is capable of achieving greater success this season.

“This team has a proud history, we’ve lifted trophies, conquered rival stadiums, and once struck fear in our opponents. Now is the time for a revival,” he said.

The event also introduced several new signings for the season, including Luqman Hakim Shamsudin, Muhammad Azri Abdul Ghani, and Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee (captain), while retaining key players like Muhammad Harith Samsuri, A. Selvan, and import Takumi Sasaki (Japan).

Javabilaarivin Aiming for More Playing Time in 2025/2026 Season

Young Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) forward N. Javabilaarivin is hoping for increased playing time throughout the upcoming 2025/2026 Malaysian League (Liga-M) season, after limited opportunities last year.

Now under the guidance of experienced head coach Nidzam Jamil for nearly two months, the 25-year-old striker says he feels more confident in his performance, thanks to the structured and focused approach brought into the squad.

While acknowledging the fierce competition for a starting spot with attacking talents like Luqman Hakim Shamsudin, A. Selvan, Muhamad Hadin Azman, and several import players, Javabilaarivin remains hopeful that this season will offer him a brighter chance to shine.

“Coach Nidzam’s training and tactical methods are very clear and well-structured. Every session is packed with tactical drills, transitions, and role-specific understanding for each position,” he said.

“I can feel my performance improving, and I’m hoping to earn a place in the squad throughout the 2025/2026 season to help elevate the name of Negeri Sembilan.”

Last season, Javabilaarivin frequently featured as a substitute striker. While his playing time was limited, his contributions were nonetheless valuable to the Hobin Jang Hobin squad.

Looking ahead, he expects a more competitive campaign in 2025/2026.

“As a forward, expectations from the team are always high. I want to make sure that whatever responsibility I’m given this season, I’ll carry it with full commitment and deliver for the team,” he added.

Ahmad Khuzaimi Ready to Lead NSFC as Captain for the 2025/2026 Season

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) centre-back Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee is ready to take on the responsibility of team captain for the 2025/2026 Malaysia Super League campaign, which kicks off this Saturday.

Khuzaimi, fondly known as Jimmy, received the captain’s armband from head coach Nidzam Jamil, and has vowed to carry out the role to the best of his ability with full support from his teammates.

“I consider this role entrusted by the coaching staff as a responsibility to be fulfilled sincerely. But I don’t see it as a burden, because I’ll be carrying it together with my teammates,” he said.

“Every player wants to elevate Negeri Sembilan’s name and achieve better results throughout the 2025/2026 season. So everyone will do their part and take their responsibilities seriously.”

The 31-year-old former Harimau Malaya defender is focused on restoring pride to the Hobin Jang Hobin squad after a disappointing previous season.

Khuzaimi believes that with a mix of experienced and young talents in the squad all hungry for success, Negeri Sembilan has the potential to become one of the strongest challengers in this year’s Super League campaign.

“My teammates and I will give our best to place the team in the top positions of the Super League. Of course, every player dreams of lifting a trophy, but we also need to be realistic and take it step by step.”

“God willing, with the fresh changes in the team and strong camaraderie among us, we can achieve something unexpected,” said the Melaka-born veteran, who previously played for NSFC.

NSFC Aiming for Strong Start in 2025–2026 Super League Campaign

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) hopes to kick off the 2025–2026 Super League season with positive results in their opening three matches this August.

The Jangs will first face Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) on 12 August, followed by two home matches at Paroi, against Selangor FC on 24 August and Kuching City FC on 28 August.

Head coach Mohd Nidzam Jamil acknowledged that all three teams possess different strengths and will require varying tactical approaches and strategies.

“Each of these matches presents its own set of challenges, and we will assess and approach them one at a time, depending on the strengths of our opponents,”

“The best approach is to remain positive and keep an open mindset so we stay prepared to face any challenge,” he said.

Nidzam also emphasized the message from NSFC Chairman Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, that the team must no longer be seen as easy opponents as a motivating factor to push for strong results.

He noted that there have been many positive developments within the team recently, with players showing enthusiasm following a solid round of training sessions and friendlies.

“Day by day, the players are embracing a positive mindset and work ethic, which is vital for helping the team navigate a demanding season,” he added.

At the same time, Nidzam called on fans to come out and show their full support in every match.

“I see the supporters as the team’s number one asset. Whether at training or in coffee shops, they’re talking about the team and that truly excites me.”

“We want the people of this state to feel that this is their team, a team they’re proud of, just like they are with our culture, customs, and food,” he said.

Luqman Hakim Returns with New Spirit, Fulfilling His Late Father’s Wish

National youth striker Luqman Hakim is determined to revive his career and make a name for himself once again after spending five years abroad.

Having recently joined Negeri Sembilan FC from a Japanese club, Luqman admits he’s ready to prove himself again after nearly fading from the spotlight in Malaysian football.

More than just a career move, Luqman shared that his return is deeply personal, driven by a desire to fulfill his late father’s dream of seeing him become one of the best footballers in Malaysia.

“That’s one of the reasons that broke me for two months, I didn’t get the chance to see my late father before he passed,” Luqman told Astro Arena during an emotional interview.

“The lesson I learned was simple, I was too caught up with matches in Japan, whether home or away. I didn’t even have time for a video call with him. I only managed to send a message to my mother.”

Luqman now returns to Malaysia with renewed motivation.

“This season, I carry a new spirit, and my father’s spirit to prove myself. He believed in me. He knew I was strong and capable of becoming one of the best footballers in Malaysia.”