Astro’s nationwide #IniPadangKita initiative is grounded in the belief that every Malaysian football journey begins on a local padang (field). Created to recognise and support the community spaces where young players first discover the game, build friendships and develop their love for football, the initiative shines a light on the people and places that continue to shape the future of Malaysian football.
More than just playing fields, local padangs have long served as important gathering spaces within Malaysian football communities, where friendships are formed, passion for the game is nurtured, and future talent often takes its first steps. Through #IniPadangKita, Astro set out to celebrate these everyday spaces that continue to keep the spirit of football alive at the grassroots level.
As part of this initiative, Astro visited four communities across Malaysia, working alongside local clubs and partners to carry out field improvements, football clinics and meaningful experiences with professional players. Each visit was centred on giving back to communities that continue to play an important role in shaping the future of Malaysian football.
The journey began with Serama FA in Kampung Jawa, Hulu Langat, where Astro helped revitalise the local football field to create a safer and more welcoming space for grassroots development. Restoration efforts included repainting field lines and benches, replacing worn goal nets, and constructing a small shelter for players and the wider community. The club also received essential training equipment such as goalposts, nets and footballs to better support its young players. Just two days after the upgrades were completed, the refurbished field came alive with a football clinic and friendly match. Led by Astro pundits, former national players and joined by KL City FC players, the session gave young aspiring footballers a rare opportunity to train alongside their heroes.
In Kampung Rhu Rendang, Terengganu, the initiative continued at the FFA Academy, where young players had the opportunity to meet members of the Terengganu FC and take part in football activities organised with the club. Some participants were also invited to experience matchday duties as stadium ushers during a Liga Super match, giving them a closer look at the professional game in a setting they had only previously watched from afar.
In Seremban, Astro worked with S2 Football Club to organise a football clinic led by Astro pundits, followed by a stadium visit where the young players met members of the Negeri Sembilan FC. The experience offered the players encouragement and exposure, while reinforcing the role of local clubs in supporting football development at grassroots level.
The final stop brought Astro to Mengkuang Titi, Bukit Mertajam, home to Kelab Bola Sepak DNA Faisal Halim, a club founded and still run by the father of Malaysian footballer Faisal Halim. The visit highlighted the long-standing commitment of individuals within communities who continue to dedicate their time to nurturing young players and keeping football accessible to children regardless of background.
Across all four locations, #IniPadangKita served as a reminder that Malaysian football has always been shaped by its communities, the people who maintain local fields, guide young players, and keep the game alive at grassroots level. This initiative was Astro’s way of spending time with those communities, recognising their contribution, and giving back to the spaces where football truly begins.
Highlights and stories of all four locations featured in the #IniPadangKita initiative are now available on Astro Malaysia’s official YouTube channel. Tune in to relive the journey and the moments shared on and off the field with the communities.
Watch the full #IniPadangKita brand stories here:
- Ini Padang Kita | Kampung Jawa, Hulu Langat
- Ini Padang Kita | FFA Academy, Kampung Rhu Rendang, Terengganu
- Ini Padang Kita | Kelab Bola S2, Negeri Sembilan
- Ini Padang Kita | Kelab DNA Faisal Halim, Mengkuang Titi, Pulau Pinang
