NSFC Strengthens Youth Pathway with Major Enhancements to NSFC III Programme at KYNS

Youth

Negeri Sembilan FC continues to reinforce its long-term commitment to youth development with a comprehensive upgrade to its B-18 programme in collaboration with Kolej Yayasan Negeri Sembilan (KYNS), Kuala Pilah.

Now entering its third year, the strategic partnership between NSFC and KYNS has undergone significant improvements following extensive feedback gathered from parents and coaches over the past two seasons. Club Chief Executive Officer, Faliq Firdaus, acknowledged that the club has carefully assessed previous shortcomings and has taken decisive steps to elevate the programme both on and off the pitch.

Rebranding and Competitive Platform

As part of the restructuring, the NSFC B-18 squad will officially be renamed NSFC III and will compete in the prestigious Piala Presiden (B-20) competition. This move is designed to expose players to a higher level of competitive football while aligning the development structure more clearly within the club’s broader pathway system.

“Student First, Footballer Second” Philosophy

Central to the initiative remains the club’s firm belief in holistic development. Players will continue to embrace the “student first, footballer second” principle, ensuring academic progress remains a priority alongside football training.

All players enrolled in the programme will undertake the TVET SKM Tahap 2 (Elektrik) certification at KYNS. This ensures that every player acquires a recognised vocational qualification, equipping them with practical skills and a viable career pathway beyond football.

Additional Value: Coaching Certification and Equipment Support

Beyond academic certification, players will also be given the opportunity to enroll in the Akar Umbi Coaching Certificate Course organised by PBNS-KYNS upon completion of their TVET syllabus. Indirectly, this initiative is expected to produce up to 25 grassroots-certified coaches, strengthening the football ecosystem within Negeri Sembilan.

In addition, each player will receive a pair of MILLS football boots as part of the club’s commitment to supporting their preparation and performance.

Monthly Allowance Increase Approved

In further positive news, YAB Pengerusi Tok Min has approved an increase in the monthly training allowance for players, demonstrating strong institutional backing for youth development efforts. The club also extended its appreciation to KYNS Chief Executive, Tuan Mohd Asyraf Amin, and the entire KYNS workforce for their unwavering support in making this collaboration a success.

Official Registration Ceremony at KYNS

Earlier today, the official registration ceremony for the NSFC III squad was held at Kolej Yayasan Negeri Sembilan, Kuala Pilah. The meaningful event was attended by Tuan Mohd Asyraf Bin Amin alongside NSFC Technical Director Efendi Abd Malek.

A total of 25 young players were formally registered into the squad. More impressively, the initiative ensures that these players are not only developed as footballers but are also enrolled in academic programmes leading to the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) Level 2 qualification.

As an added value proposition, all players will be encouraged to pursue grassroots coaching certification to strengthen their long-term career profile in football.

Diverse Talent Intake

Among the core intake of 18-year-old players, the breakdown includes:

  • 5 players from Akademi Mokhtar Dahari
  • 1 player from SSM Tunku Mahkota Ismail
  • 6 players from SSN Negeri Sembilan (SSN Za’ba)
  • 1 player from SMK Tunku Ampuan Durah, Seremban
  • 1 player from SMK Datuk Hj Abdul Samad, Port Dickson
  • 1 player from SMK Desa Cempaka, Nilai
  • 1 player from SMK Yam Tuan Radin, Port Dickson

This diversity highlights NSFC’s continued ability to attract and integrate promising talents from established development institutions and local schools alike.

A Realistic Yet Responsible Approach

The club has openly acknowledged a hard truth: not every player will progress to the next level, including NSFC II (Liga A1), and not all will secure professional contracts. However, through the integration of SKM certification and coaching qualifications, NSFC is ensuring that every player graduates from the programme with tangible skills and opportunities.

This initiative reflects the club’s long-term vision — building not only footballers, but responsible, employable and knowledgeable individuals who can contribute to the sport and society.

With strengthened structure, enhanced academic pathways and improved welfare support, NSFC III represents a significant step forward in the club’s youth development journey.