In a landmark development for ASEAN football, Brunei’s professional club DPMM FC has officially signed a three-season participation agreement with the Malaysian Football League (MFL), marking their return to the Malaysia League beginning the 2025/26 season.
The signing ceremony for DPMM FC’s Entry into the Malaysia League 2025–2028 was held in full ceremony at Thistle Hotel, Johor Bahru, attended by MFL Acting CEO, Mr. Mohd Shazli Shaik Mohd, and DPMM FC General Manager, Mr. Md Ali Haji Momin. The agreement was witnessed by MFL President Dato’ Ab Ghani Hassan alongside DPMM FC Marketing Manager, Mr. Momin Md Jaafar.
This agreement confirms that DPMM FC will compete in the Malaysia Super League starting from the 2025–2026 season, marking a significant return to Malaysian professional football for the club, which last featured in the Super League back in 2008.
Malaysia and Brunei share a deep-rooted footballing history. Brunei made its first appearance in the Malaysia Cup in 1979 and joined the Semi-Pro League in 1989. A pinnacle moment came in 1999, when Brunei lifted the prestigious Malaysia Cup, defeating Sarawak 2-1 at Stadium Merdeka. DPMM FC later joined the Malaysia Super League in 2005, finishing an impressive third in their debut season.
This collaboration is part of MFL’s strategic agenda to enhance the competitive value of the league, while also promoting regional cooperation and ASEAN football unity.
“We are honoured to welcome the official return of DPMM FC to the Malaysia League for the 2025–2026 season,” said MFL President Dato’ Ab Ghani Hassan.
“This is more than just a return — it’s the revival of a strong historical connection between Malaysia and Brunei. With DPMM FC’s professionalism, experience, and reputation, we believe their presence will enrich the Super League and bring new energy to our football ecosystem.”
DPMM FC General Manager, Mr. Md Ali Haji Momin, expressed excitement at returning to the Malaysia League after years of competing in Singapore’s top tier. He believes this move will expose his players to a new level of competition and experience.
“We are thrilled to return to the Malaysia League, which holds a strong brand in this region. We know the Super League clubs offer high-quality football, and that’s the kind of challenge we’re looking for.
The Malaysia League is close to the hearts of Bruneian fans, and we believe they are just as excited for our return. This experience will surely boost our players’ performance and deepen the footballing ties between Brunei and Malaysia.”
Credit Photo : Sorawit/SNE Sports