The Negeri Sembilan Youth Challenge 2025 (NSYC2025), organised by the Negeri Sembilan Fencing Association (NSFA), concluded its vibrant three-day tournament on 23 June, transforming Centerpoint Seremban in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, into a bustling arena of talent, determination, and sportsmanship.
NSYC2025 attracted over 500 entries for individual events in the Under-8, Under-10, Under-12, Under-14, and Under-17 categories for both girls and boys, across the three fencing disciplines: Foil, Épée, and Sabre.
Thirty-nine teams also participated in team competitions, which were held at the Under-12 and Under-17 categories for both genders in all three disciplines. The introduction of ‘Team Trophies’, which were awarded to the club or organisation with the greatest number of points earned in the individual events, simply added to the thrill of NSYC2025.
NSFA president, Tengku Datuk Mu’adzam Sadruddin bin Tengku Noone Aziz, stated, “We are indeed honoured to host so many participants, where the number of entries this year was significantly higher than last year’s 330 entries. 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.”
He further stated, “On behalf of NSFA, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the athletes, coaches, and supporters, without whom this event would not have happened. Your dedication and energy have truly inspired everyone present. Congratulations to all athletes on their performance, including those who did not finish on the podium, as this is more than just a tournament; it 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.”
NSYC2025 also earned PAJSK recognition from the Malaysian Ministry of Education (KPM), granting participants co-curricular points, reinforcing the Malaysian Education Blueprint’s vision of holistic student development through sports.
PAJSK or Physical Activity, Sports, and Co-curriculum Assessment is a KPM system used to evaluate students’ involvement and achievements in physical activities, sports, and co-curricular activities.
Attracting participants from across Malaysia as well as international participants from Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Oman, the tournament is a clear signal of Malaysia’s growing influence in the regional fencing scene and a powerful example of how youth sports can spark economic and community development.
NSYC2025 was not only a state-level ranking event for Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2026 selection, but also a showcase of Malaysia’s innovative approach to sports development.
Held in a shopping mall, it echoes Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh’s call to bring sports into community spaces. The event introduced the elegance of fencing to curious shoppers while generating a real economic impact.
Centerpoint Seremban’s management expressed their support for hosting sporting events like the NSYC 2025 in their mall. “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.”
This is the third year in which the NSFA has obtained approval from the Sports Commissioner Office of Malaysia (PJS) to host an international event. This requires that the event be sanctioned by the Malaysian Fencing Federation (MFF) and vetted and approved by PJS. The Minister of Youth and Sports then issues the approval letter once the process is completed.
Tengku Datuk Mu’adzam said, “We would like to thank the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), Negeri Sembilan Sports Council (MSNNS), Ministry of Education (KPM) and the Malaysian Convention and Exhibitions Bureau (MyCEB), a company under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, for their unwavering support and involvement in this event. A special thanks to Malaysian Fencing Federation (MFF) who, over the past three years, provided us with the necessary equipment, guidance and encouragement, which made the NSYC tournaments possible.”
“We are also deeply grateful to our sponsors, whose generosity ensured that we could provide a competitive and welcoming platform for all. A huge thank you to the entire NSYC2025 committee, the team of officials and volunteers who all played such an important role in making this event a success. Together, we are building a brighter future for fencing in Negeri Sembilan and contributing to the increasingly vibrant MFF calendar,” continued Tengku Datuk Mu’adzam.
Madam Rusni Abu Hassan, president of the MFF, said, “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 the Negeri Sembilan Fencing Association for their tireless efforts in organising this exciting event.”
Rusni further 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.”
Malaysia’s sporting vision in action
As Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, tournaments like NSYC are aligned with the national tourism target of 45 million international visitors and RM270 billion in tourism receipts. Events like NSYC offer dual value: they elevate youth sport as well as provide memorable experiences that benefit families, retailers, and local economies.
“This year’s success lays the foundation for an even more spectacular NSYC2026,” revealed Tengku Datuk Mu’adzam Sadruddin. “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.”
For more information on NSYC2026 or for sponsorship opportunities, visit www.nsfencing.org.my or contact [email protected].
Source: Negeri Sembilan Fencing Association (Press Release)