NSYC2025 set to build on success as Negeri Sembilan fencing meet eyes bigger future
2 July 2025
Two sabre fencers engage in a dynamic bout at the NSYC2025, which was held at Centerpoint Seremban. - PLPNS pic, July 2, 2025
KUALA LUMPUR — Following a highly successful 2025 edition, plans are already under way for the next instalment of the Negeri Sembilan Youth Challenge (NSYC), which looks set to grow in scope and ambition.
Organised by the Negeri Sembilan Fencing Association (PLPNS), the NSYC2025 tournament concluded on June 23 after transforming Centerpoint Seremban into a vibrant sporting hub for three days.
The event drew over 500 entries across various age categories and fencing disciplines, with participants from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Oman.
“We are indeed honoured to host so many participants, where the numbers of entries this year were significantly higher than last year’s 330 entries,” said PLPNS president, Datuk Tengku Mu’adzam Sadruddin Tengku Noone Aziz.
“It was an exciting three days of fencing. At times, we saw tears of joy, as well as disappointment, a true testament to the spirit and passion for the sport.
“(This) is a platform where young fencers gain experience, build friendships, and develop confidence both on and off the piste, as well as learning more about sportsmanship.”
The tournament, which featured individual events from Under-8 to Under-17 and team competitions for Under-12 and Under-17, introduced ‘Team Trophies’ this year to reward clubs for overall performance — adding a new layer of excitement.
Proud foil fencers from Triumph Fencing Studio, Sri KL International School, and Touche Fencing Club
stand on the podium, receiving their awards for the under-10 boys foil from Datuk Mohd Faizal Ramli
and PLPNS president Datuk Tengku Mu’adzam Sadruddin. - PLPNS pic, July 2, 2025
NSYC2025 also received recognition from the Ministry of Education through PAJSK (Physical, Sports, and Co-curricular Activities Assessment), awarding co-curricular points to participants — a move aligned with the Malaysia Education Blueprint’s aim for holistic student development.
The tournament not only served as a state-level ranking event for the 2026 Malaysia Games (Sukma), but also reinforced the government’s effort to make sports more accessible.
Hosting the event in a shopping mall supported the call by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh to bring sports into community spaces — generating interest from the public and boosting local businesses.
“We were thrilled to host this year’s championship. The enthusiastic energy brought in by the athletes, families, and spectators added a unique buzz to the mall, and retailers benefited positively,” said Centerpoint Seremban’s management.
This marked the third consecutive year PLPNS has received approval from the Sports Commissioner (PJS) to host an international-level event — a process that involves sanctioning by the Malaysian Fencing Federation (MFF) and final approval by the Youth and Sports Ministry.
The organising team of the NSYC2025 - PLPNS pic, July 2, 2025
MFF president Rusni Abu Hassan reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to developing youth fencing through initiatives like NSYC.
“MFF is proud to continue its support for NSYC, which has been a key fixture on MFF’s official calendar for the past three years. I would like to congratulate PLPNS for their tireless efforts in organising this exciting event.”
She added: “This initiative aligns with MFF’s commitment to expanding youth development tournaments across Malaysia through our member state associations.”
“Such events play a crucial role in both popularising fencing and increasing the number of athletes eligible to compete at Sukma.
“They also serve as a valuable platform for identifying future talent who may go on to represent Malaysia on the international stage.
“I am confident that next year’s edition will continue to grow in stature, offering an exciting and competitive platform for young fencers from across Malaysia and the wider region.”
As Malaysia prepares to welcome 45 million international visitors under Visit Malaysia 2026, events like NSYC are seen as supporting both tourism and grassroots sports development.
“This year’s success lays the foundation for an even more spectacular NSYC2026,” said Mu’adzam.
“We’re already planning next year’s tournament, and are in discussions with the state government as part of the preparation for Visit Negeri Sembilan year.
“We hope to also partner with local tourist attractions to provide opportunities for both Malaysian as well as international participants to enjoy the delights of Negeri Sembilan.” — July 2, 2025