KUALA TERENGGANU, 9 June 2026 – The trust given by the Majlis Kebajikan dan Sukan Anggota-Anggota Kerajaan (MAKSAK) Pulau Pinang to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through USM FC, to form and manage the state football team for the MAKSAK National Football Championship 2026 is a significant responsibility.

This mandate is an acknowledgment of the reputation, credibility, and consistent excellence of USM FC, which has proven its ability to compete at the national level through participation in the AFL A2 league.

The confidence shown reflects the strong belief of the Penang public service community in USM FC’s capability to carry the state’s challenge in a tournament that gathers the best MAKSAK teams nationwide.

As one of the institutional teams making its mark in Malaysian football, USM FC has built its name through professional management, systematic talent development, and strong fighting spirit.

Experience in competitive national leagues gives the team a major advantage in facing the pressure and challenges of the MAKSAK National stage.

According to team management, this responsibility is accepted with full commitment to bring pride to Penang.

Chairman of the Penang MAKSAK Football Team 2026 and USM Registrar, Mohd Azizudin Mohd Shariff, said: "We will give our best to ensure Penang emerges as a strong contender in this championship. The team is determined to bring the fighting spirit, discipline, and professionalism that define USM FC, in line with USM’s motto ‘We Lead.’”

The championship, which begins in Kuala Terengganu today to 14 June 2026, is expected to feature tough competition from state teams strengthened by experienced players from various local leagues.

USM FC enters with its own advantage – a mix of experienced players, quality young talents, and strong support from management and coaching staff.

Beyond chasing victory, the team carries a bigger mission: to strengthen ties among civil servants nationwide and to uphold a culture of sporting excellence in the public service.

The USM community, Penang sports supporters, and the MAKSAK fraternity all place high hopes that the squad representing Penang will achieve proud success in Terengganu.

“For Penang, For Excellence, For Victory!”

Text & Photo: USM FC Football Club Management/Translation: Tan Ewe Hoe