SEREMBAN, Oct 18 (Bernama) -- The Negeri Sembilan state government has pledged to increase the incentive for NS Antlers to RM50,000 from RM30,000 if the team wins the overall title in the Sepak Takraw League (STL) 2026, scheduled to take place in Perak next week.
Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim said the state government has raised the reward for NS Antlers to RM20,000 from RM15,000 for winning any sepak takraw tournament to encourage the team to maintain its strong performance this season.
“Many people, including myself, Negeri Sembilan residents and sepak takraw fans across the state, are hoping to see our team continue to achieve success.
“The state government strongly supports the team in recognition of its performance and achievements last year,” he told reporters after launching the NS Antlers squad for the 2026 Sepak Takraw League (STL) here today.
He said three NS Antlers players had also represented Malaysia at the Asian Cup, reflecting improved team performance and raising hopes of further success in STL 2026.
Meanwhile, Ismail said the state government is also considering setting up a sepak takraw academy in Negeri Sembilan if NS Antlers maintain consistent performances and the sport continues to attract public interest in the state.
He said the team's continued success could pave the way for greater development of sepak takraw in Negeri Sembilan.
NS Antlers have retained five experienced players for STL 2026, namely Haziq Hairul Nizam, Hafizul Hayazi Adnan, Amirul Farabi, Afiq Badli and Zulefendi Sumari, while bringing in two imports, Japan's Daishi Tamaki and Thailand's Siwatbancha Seekhwa.
-- BERNAMA