Local football season is back and official broadcaster Astro injects fresh energy into Liga Malaysia - from the field to the fans
With 229 matches to be broadcast LIVE in high definition (HD), supporters can follow every goal, dramatic moment, and the best actions from anywhere — whether at home, in the stadium, or on the go via the Astro One pack and sooka.
Nicholas John, Head of Sports, Astro said, 'Football is the heartbeat of millions of Malaysians, and Astro is proud to lead the way in fuelling this passion. Over the past two seasons, we've seen viewership grow by over 20%, with nearly 24 million views in total.
"This proves that the interest for the local football league is thriving, and it resonates well with fans. For this season, Astro is taking a fresher approach by spotlighting a lineup of football experts.
"These experts, formerly professional players, will now share their insights in the studio, offering authentic perspectives from the field to the screen. We are also committed to supporting grassroots development through our 'Ini Padang Kita' campaign, which aims to restore and reactivate community fields as hubs for nurturing talent and fostering community unity.'
Further strengthening its commitment to Malaysian football, Astro also announced its partnership with U Mobile as the Official Broadcast Sponsor of the Malaysia League for the second consecutive year. This strategic collaboration expands the reach of local leagues and strengthens the passion for local football.
Datuk Abdul Ghani Hassan, President, Malaysian Football League (MFL), added, 'This new season promises to be even more exciting and full of surprises, with clubs stepping up their pre-season preparations for their squads.
"The addition of three new clubs - Melaka FC, Imigresen FC, and the return of Brunei-based DPMM FC - will add flavour to this season's competition."
To make it more special, for the 2025–2026 Malaysia League season, Astro is strengthening its broadcast team with two seasoned football figures who will bring fresh insights to match analysis and coverage.
The two new pundits are Akmal Rizal Ahmad Rakhli, a prolific national striker of the 2000s, and Farizal Marlias, the former national team's No. 1 goalkeeper. They join an existing lineup that includes Zaquan Adha, Safee Sali, Razman Roslan, Nizaruddin Yusof, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha (Mat Yo), and Dato' Zainal Abidin Hassan.
Their presence enriches match analysis not only from tactical and technical angles, but also from the lens of former players who truly understand the heartbeat and rhythm of the game.
This season, Astro also launches the 'Ini Padang Kita' campaign – a tribute and honour to the local football fields that have played an instrumental role in developing Malaysian football.
"These fields are more than just patches of grass; they are the birthplace of dreams, the earliest battlegrounds, and spaces where players and supporters from diverse backgrounds come together," said Astro in an official press release.
"Through this sustainability initiative, Astro is prioritising the restoration of community fields not just in terms of infrastructure but also as safe, inclusive spaces for the younger generation to train, play, and build their dreams.
"More than just a campaign, 'Ini Padang Kita' reflects a strong commitment towards football development at the grassroot level that begins small within communities and not just in large stadiums."
Astro also intends to elevate the local football viewing experience with a comprehensive approach that goes beyond the 90 minutes on the field. In addition to exclusive on-ground and post-match coverage, supporters at the stadium will also enjoy performances by popular artists, pre-match carnivals, and a variety of interactive activities.
(Subscription for Astro One Sports Pack is priced at RM99.99/month or the sooka Sports & Entertainment Plan at RM29.60/month. Fans can also upgrade to Astro Fibre 500Mbps with the Sports Pack for RM189.99/month for a better streaming experience. To subscribe or upgrade to Astro One, visit www.astro.com.my or WhatsApp at 03 - 95433838.)
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