KUALA LUMPUR – National winger Safawi Rasid is set to continue his Malaysian football career with Kuching City after leaving Kuala Lumpur City, with sources indicating the Sarawak club are close to finalising a deal ahead of the new season.
A source within the local football fraternity told Scoop that negotiations have progressed positively, with Safawi expected to become one of Kuching City’s marquee signings as the club prepares for its maiden campaign in the AFC Champions League Two (ACL2).
“The move is progressing well and, barring any unforeseen complications, Safawi is expected to join Kuching City. The club are building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts, particularly with the demands of the domestic competitions and the ACL2.
“They know they need experienced players who have performed at the highest level both domestically and internationally. Safawi brings quality, experience and leadership, all of which will be invaluable as the team ventures into continental football,” the source said.
The same source revealed that national midfielder Syamer Kutty Abba is also a priority target as head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak looks to add depth and quality to his squad.
“Syamer is another player the club are seriously pursuing. Aidil wants greater depth because the fixture schedule will be much more demanding than last season. Competing in the league, domestic cup competitions and Asia requires quality options in every position.
“The coaching staff are not looking to add numbers for the sake of it. They want players with proven pedigree who can adapt quickly to the team’s playing philosophy and maintain high standards whenever called upon,” the source added.
Former Johor Darul Ta’zim midfielder Nazmi Faiz Mansor has also emerged as a potential target, although discussions over a possible move are understood to be at an early stage.
Kuching City already have several former Johor Darul Ta’zim players in their ranks, including goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli, Ramadhan Saifullah Usman and Danial Amier Norhisham, making the club an increasingly attractive destination for experienced Malaysian internationals.
If Safawi, Syamer and Nazmi complete their respective moves, Kuching City would significantly strengthen a squad that has rapidly established itself as one of Malaysian football’s emerging forces.
The Sarawak side enjoyed an outstanding 2025-26 campaign, finishing runners-up in the Super League while reaching the Malaysia Cup final and the FA Cup semi-finals.
They will also make their debut in the Asean Club Championship Shopee Cup this season, alongside their first appearance in the AFC Champions League Two, making squad depth a key priority ahead of one of the busiest campaigns in the club’s history.
Earlier, Safawi hinted that a new chapter was imminent when he bid farewell to Kuala Lumpur City in an Instagram post.
“Every ending marks a new beginning. I’m grateful for the memories, the lessons and the journey. I wish the club every success in the future. Now it’s time for a new challenge,” he wrote in his post. – July 3, 2026