PETALING JAYA: Kuching City have moved swiftly to secure the future of head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak after handing the Singaporean tactician a three-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2029.
The deal reflects the club management’s confidence in Aidil’s leadership, vision and ability to continue elevating the Sarawak side into one of the rising forces in Malaysian football.
Since taking charge in 2023, Aidil has transformed Kuching City from league strugglers into genuine contenders, guiding the club to a historic second-place finish in the Super League last season and securing qualification for the AFC Champions League (ACL) Two competition.
The Cats also enjoyed a memorable run to the Malaysia Cup final before falling 0-2 to Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT).
In a statement, Kuching City said the contract extension symbolises their belief in continuity and stability as the club push towards greater success domestically and in Asia.
“Since taking charge of the team, Aidil has played a pivotal role in shaping the club’s playing identity, strengthening team spirit and delivering numerous proud achievements for Kuching City FC,” the club president Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman.
“The club believe this continuity will provide stability and positive momentum in our efforts to build a more glorious future for the team and all Kuching City supporters.”
Aidil’s impact, however, extends far beyond results alone.
Widely regarded as one of the best man-managers in Malaysian football, the former Singapore international has built a squad culture centred on unity, trust and togetherness.
The 48-year-old has also earned praise for reviving careers and maximising the potential of his squad.
Forward Danial Asri has flourished under his guidance, while veterans James Okwuosa and Petrus Shitembi continue to play key roles despite being 36 and 34 respectively this year.
Both remain central figures in Aidil’s tactical philosophy, which is built around defensive discipline, relentless pressing and quick, intelligent counter-attacks.
Aidil also deserves credit for stabilising the club with a balanced recruitment strategy, combining experienced foreign imports with promising local talents from Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.
Perhaps most importantly, he has embraced the culture of both the city and the club, forging a strong connection with supporters and the wider football community in Kuching.
With three more years now secured, Kuching City will hope Aidil’s project can continue driving the club towards even greater heights on the domestic and continental stage.
