Tag: faliq firdaus

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.

Leadership, Trust, and Renewal: A Critical Moment for Negeri Sembilan FC

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) CEO Faliq Firdaus has addressed supporters with a message that reflects both accountability and resolve at a pivotal moment for the club. In a recent Facebook post, Faliq confirmed that he has received the approval and full backing of NSFC Chairman, YAB Dato’ Seri Utama Aminuddin Harun, to take decisive steps aimed at improving the team and strengthening the club’s overall direction.

The statement comes amid growing concern over NSFC’s current Super League performance, which Faliq openly acknowledged as a key issue weighing on the Chairman and the club’s leadership. Rather than deflecting criticism, the CEO framed the situation as a shared responsibility—one that demands clarity, action, and renewed focus.

Importantly, Faliq highlighted the upcoming second transfer window as a crucial opportunity to restore confidence among the club’s loyal supporters, widely known as The Jangs. This period is seen not merely as a chance to adjust the squad, but as a strategic reset—an effort to realign performance with expectations and rebuild belief within the NSFC community.

From a leadership and well-being perspective, transparency during periods of underperformance plays a vital role in maintaining organisational trust. In high-pressure environments such as professional sport, clear communication can help reduce uncertainty, manage emotional stress among stakeholders, and foster collective resilience. Faliq’s message reflects this approach by acknowledging challenges while reinforcing institutional support and unity at the top.

The CEO also expressed gratitude for the Chairman’s unwavering and non-partisan support for the advancement of football in Negeri Sembilan. Such backing is essential not only for operational stability, but also for creating a psychologically secure environment in which long-term planning and corrective measures can be implemented effectively.

Faliq concluded his message with a note of humility, asking for prayers that the responsibility entrusted to him can be carried out successfully. This closing sentiment underscores the human dimension of leadership—recognising that progress is shaped not only by strategy and resources, but also by trust, collective effort, and moral responsibility.

As NSFC navigates this challenging phase, the coming weeks—particularly during the transfer window—will be closely watched. For supporters and observers alike, the message from the club’s CEO signals intent, accountability, and a renewed commitment to steering Negeri Sembilan FC toward stability, confidence, and healthier performance both on and off the pitch.

Faliq Firdaus Confirms January Transfer Plans and Provides Update on Alex Agyarkwa’s Situation

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus has revealed that the club is preparing for an active January 2026 transfer window, with strategic reinforcements planned to strengthen key areas of the squad. At the same time, he acknowledged ongoing discussions surrounding the status of midfielder Alex Agyarkwa, hinting at the possibility of changes ahead.

Speaking in an interview with Harimau Malaya, held during the official announcement of MILLS as the “Footwear Partner” of Terengganu FC at Holiday Inn Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, Faliq outlined the club’s current focus on maintaining stability while continuing its rebuilding process.

“We are still in the recovery phase,” he said. “But we also understand the importance of maintaining confidence among our supporters. That’s why there will be some transfer activity in January to make sure the team stays competitive and finishes the season strongly.”

Preparing for January: Strengthening Core Positions

According to Faliq, NSFC have already started shortlisting potential signings, primarily focusing on the defensive line and central midfield — areas identified as priorities after recent injuries.

“We’ve begun evaluating a few targets, especially for the back four and the centre-midfield positions,” he explained. “We’re not chasing big names — our focus is on reliable and consistent players who can strengthen the squad depth.”

He emphasized that the upcoming transfers are intended to support the existing squad, not to overhaul it, ensuring the club remains financially sustainable while improving competitiveness.

“Our approach is practical. We want players who can contribute immediately if needed, but we also have to manage our budget carefully,” he said. “We don’t want to overspend — we want to build a club that can last.”

Alex Agyarkwa’s Future Under Review

Addressing speculation surrounding Ghanaian midfielder Alex Agyarkwa, Faliq confirmed that the club is aware of the possibility of the player’s departure and has prepared contingency plans.

“We’ve taken note of the possibility that Alex might be recalled or returned,” Faliq said. “That’s why we’ve already prepared a Plan B to counter that situation if it happens.”

Although no final decision has been made, Faliq assured supporters that the club’s management and technical team are aligned and ready to act swiftly should Agyarkwa’s status change.

“What I can share is that there will definitely be transfer activity in January,” he confirmed. “We’ve already started shortlisting our potential signings in case we need to replace Alex or fill other crucial roles.”

Focus on Sustainability and Long-Term Growth

Faliq reiterated that NSFC’s transfer philosophy prioritizes long-term sustainability over short-term glamour.

“Our transfer approach is always long-term,” he explained. “If you look at players like Wai Lin Aung and Filip Anderson, both are in their early 20s — these are players we can develop for years ahead.”

He further stressed that any mid-season reinforcements would be carefully selected to balance immediate team needs and financial discipline.

“Whether or not they are big names depends on our capability and the team’s requirements,” Faliq said. “The most important thing is we don’t burst our budget. We’re planning for next season too, so we must remain financially healthy.”

Building for a Strong Finish

With Negeri Sembilan FC still in the process of rebuilding under head coach Nidzam Jamil, the upcoming transfer window represents a key opportunity to consolidate progress and regain consistency after a mixed start to the season.

“The match against Terengganu later this month will be very important to restore confidence among our fans,” said Faliq. “We believe we’re still on the right track — these upcoming signings will help us stay competitive and finish the season well.”

As the January window approaches, Negeri Sembilan FC’s careful planning and proactive approach underline their commitment to steady growth — balancing ambition with financial responsibility. Whether or not Alex Agyarkwa remains part of the squad, Faliq Firdaus and his team are determined to ensure that Sang Rusa remain competitive, united, and ready for the next phase of their journey.

STAR Paroi Set for Gradual Upgrades as Negeri Sembilan FC Continue to Rise

As Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) continue to build momentum both on and off the pitch, their home ground — Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman (STAR), Paroi — is preparing for a much-needed transformation.

The stadium, a historic landmark for Negeri Sembilan football, will soon undergo a series of phased upgrades, including essential repairs, new commercial features, and a fresh paint job to revitalize its appearance.

In an interview with Harimau Malaya, NSFC Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus revealed that the club’s resurgence and the surge in fan attendance have reignited efforts to restore and modernize the stadium after years without major improvements.

“Over the last 10 to 20 years, there haven’t been any significant upgrades at STAR Paroi,” said Faliq. “But now that fans are coming back in huge numbers — we’ve had four full-house games this season — it’s clear that the stadium deserves to evolve along with the team.”

Fan Support Driving Change

This season, the Sang Rusa faithful have filled STAR Paroi to near capacity, with several matches attracting more than 20,000 spectators — among the best attendances in the Malaysia Super League.

“This kind of support is a blessing,” Faliq said. “We’ve generated between RM1.5 to RM2 million in ticket revenue — a huge help for a club of our size. That income allows us to reinvest in the stadium, improving facilities for both fans and players.”

He added that the overwhelming fan turnout has also caught the attention of Majlis Bandaraya Seremban (MBS), which has now allocated a budget for stadium enhancement works.

Phased Improvements Underway

The planned upgrades for STAR Paroi will be carried out in stages, ensuring sustainable implementation without disrupting match schedules.

“MBS has started drafting the improvement plan, and certain repair works will begin soon,” said Faliq. “From the club’s side, we’ve also initiated several efforts to refresh and modernize the stadium environment.”

Among the upcoming enhancements are:

  • Electrical system upgrades to improve matchday operations and lighting stability.
  • A new LED advertising board sponsorship, adding to the club’s commercial strength.
  • The launch of an official NSFC Concept Store within the stadium concourse.
  • A comprehensive paint job to rejuvenate the stadium’s exterior and seating areas, giving STAR Paroi a brighter, more modern look that reflects NSFC’s current energy.
  • Evaluation of new grass technology, with Zoysia being tested as a replacement for traditional cow grass — in line with the MFL’s 2027 surface regulations.

Collaboration for a Modern Home

Faliq emphasized that the stadium development project reflects NSFC’s long-term vision and close cooperation with local authorities.

“We’re improving things gradually, step by step,” he said. “The key is continuous progress. When the team performs well and fans fill the stands, it motivates everyone — from the club to the city council — to keep pushing for better facilities.”

As the spiritual home of Negeri Sembilan football, STAR Paroi is more than just a venue — it’s the heartbeat of Sekalian Yang Setia. With a wave of upgrades, a new coat of paint, and renewed support from fans and partners, the stadium is ready to shine again — embodying the pride, passion, and perseverance of Negeri Sembilan FC.

Faliq Firdaus: Laying the Foundations for a Stronger Future at Negeri Sembilan FC

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) Chief Executive Officer, Faliq Firdaus, has reaffirmed the club’s steady growth and long-term vision for success, emphasizing sustainable progress, youth development, and infrastructure improvement as key pillars for the team’s future.

The NSFC CEO shared his insights in an exclusive interview with Harimau Malaya, held during the official event announcing MILLS as the strategic “Footwear Partner” of Terengganu FC for the 2025/2026 season at Holiday Inn Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.

Strengthening the Team and Supporter Confidence

Reflecting on Negeri Sembilan’s performance this season, Faliq said the club is still in its “recovery phase” but is showing clear signs of improvement both on and off the pitch.

“Last season we finished second from bottom, but this year we’ve seen real progress — new key players, a new coach, and a stronger team identity,” he explained. “Our internal target is to achieve a much better league position, ideally within single digits. We want to keep improving and eventually compete at the Asian level.”

Faliq also expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the fans, noting that the club has recorded four Super League home matches attracting over 20,000 spectators each, while early ticket sales for the upcoming clash against Terengganu have already exceeded 5,000 even before official promotion.

“We truly appreciate our loyal fans. The match against Terengganu is crucial in restoring confidence. We’ve been testing new combinations and giving young players valuable minutes — this is part of our long-term plan,” he said.

January Transfer Window: Smart Reinforcements Ahead

Faliq confirmed that NSFC will be active during the January 2026 transfer window, focusing on strategic reinforcements rather than marquee signings.

“We’ve started shortlisting potential signings, mainly for the back four and central midfield positions,” he revealed. “The focus isn’t on big names but on reliable backups. We have several injuries now — players like Wai Lin Aung and Luis Enrique Nsue are out — so we need depth while keeping our finances in check. Sustainability is the priority.”

He added that NSFC’s recruitment philosophy remains focused on long-term growth:

“Our previous signings like Wai Lin Aung and Filip Anderson are in their early twenties — these are investments for the future. The next signings will follow that same principle.”

Mantin Training Centre: A Milestone for Negeri Sembilan Football

Faliq also confirmed encouraging progress on the club’s new training centre in Mantin, developed in collaboration with Majlis Bandaraya Seremban (MBS).

“The land lease agreement is being finalised for 18 to 21 years. We expect our Super League squad to start training there by early next year,” he said.

The facility will be developed in three phases — beginning with the training pitch, followed by a multipurpose building featuring dressing rooms and halls. The club is also exploring the use of Zoysia grass, in anticipation of the 2027 MFL regulation that will phase out cow grass in professional venues.

Stadium Paroi Upgrades and Fan Facilities

Faliq praised the continued rise in fan attendance at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, which has seen multiple sold-out matches this season. The increasing attendance — with four games surpassing the 20,000-spectator mark — has not only boosted the club’s atmosphere but also strengthened its financial position.

“This incredible support has helped us generate between RM1.5 to RM2 million in ticket revenue — a vital boost for a club of our size,” said Faliq. “It has also drawn positive attention from the Seremban City Council, who have already allocated a budget for stadium upgrades.”

Renovations will be implemented in stages, focusing on infrastructure, electrical systems, and matchday experience. NSFC has also opened a concept store at the stadium and secured an LED board sponsorship to enhance commercial visibility.

“We’re improving things step by step. It’s gradual, but every step counts. What matters is that progress is happening,” he added.

As Negeri Sembilan FC continues to evolve, Faliq Firdaus remains confident that the club’s mix of financial prudence, strategic recruitment, and infrastructure development will pave the way for long-term success — both on and off the field.

Faliq Firdaus Stresses Improvement and Focus After PDRM Victory

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) Chief Executive Officer, Faliq Firdaus, has reminded the team to remain grounded and not become complacent following their 2-0 victory over PDRM FC at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, last night.

Speaking after the match, Faliq acknowledged that while the result was positive, the team must continue to sharpen their performance, particularly in front of goal.

“After discussions with Coach Nidzam Jamil, we’re still not fully satisfied. We had four or five clear chances but failed to convert. That shows we weren’t clinical or sharp enough,” he said.

Faliq added that the management and coaching staff are fully aware of the areas needing improvement and are already taking steps to strengthen the team, both in the short and mid-term.

“We know our issues — injuries and squad depth are among them. We’re looking at some options and, with approval from our chairman and relevant authorities by January, we plan to bring in several players. For now, we’ll continue to manage with what we have until December.”

He also emphasized that the Super League season is a marathon, not a sprint, and urged both players and supporters to stay patient and committed.

“The league is long; it runs until May. We must stay resilient and keep improving. I’ve spoken to the players and the coach — we’re giving our all in every game. Hopefully, this win becomes a stepping stone for something greater.”

Faliq closed his remarks by expressing gratitude to the loyal Negeri Sembilan supporters, encouraging them to continue backing the team through every challenge.

“We’re grateful for the fans who always stand by us. Keep supporting, because your energy drives us forward.”

Faliq Firdaus: “This is a marathon, not a sprint — and we will improve”

Negeri Sembilan FC Chief Executive Officer, Faliq Firdaus, has acknowledged the team’s current challenges but assured supporters that strategic reinforcements will be made during the upcoming January transfer window.

“I can’t comment on tactical matters as that’s the prerogative of the head coach. But obviously, it’s not working as we hoped. What’s certain is that we will invest in new players when the window opens,” he said in a post addressing the team’s performance.

Faliq admitted that the absence of key players such as Wai Lin Aung and Luis Enrique due to injuries has left visible gaps in the squad, emphasizing that depth remains an issue.

He also took the opportunity to express gratitude to the loyal supporters, Sekalian Yang Setia, promising that changes are on the way.

“We truly appreciate the unwavering support from our fans, and that’s why we are determined to make key improvements in the next window,” he added.

Despite the challenges, Faliq stressed that the club’s journey is far from over and reminded fans that progress takes time.

“This is a marathon, not a sprint. Coach Nidzam Jamil and I have always agreed that this project is about long-term growth. We’ve come a long way from finishing second-last two seasons ago to achieving much better results last season.”

“I accept all criticism because it’s part of the job. The process can be painful, but we guarantee that we’ll continue to improve from time to time,” he said.

Faliq concluded by reaffirming his commitment to elevating the club’s position.

“We’ve seen how the team performed last season, and I certainly don’t want us to be in the same position this year.”

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CEO Faliq Promises Action as Negeri Sembilan Aim to Improve Away Form

Negeri Sembilan FC supporters have plenty to smile about this season as Nidzam Jamil’s men continue to show visible progress and a stronger overall performance compared to previous campaigns.

However, despite the encouraging form at home, the Jangs have struggled to replicate their momentum when playing away — a concern that hasn’t gone unnoticed among fans.

So far, Negeri Sembilan have suffered defeats on the road against Johor Darul Ta’zim (Super League), PDRM FC (FA Cup), and most recently, Penang FC (Super League).

This inconsistency has drawn attention from Negeri Sembilan FC Chief Executive Officer, Faliq Firdaus, who assured that the club is actively working to address the issue and strengthen the team’s competitiveness.

“I’d like to apologise on behalf of the club for the inconsistent performances. Each match requires a different approach because football is a collective effort,” said Faliq.

“From a management perspective, we are likely to make moves during the second transfer window to improve the situation.”

The Malaysia League’s second transfer window, scheduled from 5 January to 1 February 2026, could see Negeri Sembilan bolstering their current squad with new signings as part of the plan to enhance depth and stability.

As it stands, Negeri Sembilan sit sixth in the Super League table with eight points from six matches, and the club remains determined to build on their early progress and maintain momentum throughout the season.

CEO’s Statement on Club Development and Upcoming Initiatives

Negeri Sembilan FC CEO, Faliq Firdaus, expressed his gratitude to supporters, highlighting their unwavering loyalty as the driving force behind the club’s continued growth.

“Thank you. You were simply amazing,” Faliq said, acknowledging the passionate backing of the Jang faithful. “Because of Sekalian Yang Setia, the final quarter of 2025 and the early months of 2026 promise to be an exciting period for the club.”

He revealed several key initiatives already in motion:

  • Training Centre – Development will be accelerated to provide the squad with world-class facilities.
  • Fundraising Dinner – Scheduled for October, aimed at strengthening the club’s financial foundation.
  • Enhanced Matchday Experience – Fans can look forward to new activations and entertainment, particularly during major fixtures.

Faliq also provided updates on the club’s official Warrix jerseys, which will be available in three editions — Player Issue, Replica Issue, and Fan Issue. The Fan Issue will be priced affordably, below RM100, to ensure wider accessibility for supporters. In addition, kids’ jerseys are expected to be released by September.

These steps are part of Negeri Sembilan FC commitment to the fans — making sure they feel valued, connected, and proud to be part of Negeri Sembilan FC.