Rihla, Rihla, Rihla — it’s so good to have you here. Let’s kick things off simple: who is Rihla Nuer Aulia? Tell us about your childhood, your roots, and who you are off the pitch when the boots come off.
Hi, my name is Rihla Nuer Aulia. I was born and raised in Jakarta in a modest family. I’m the third of five siblings. Growing up, I was always an active child, especially in sports, and football quickly became the one I was most passionate about — eventually turning it into a career. Currently, I’m also a student at the State University of Jakarta. While football is a big part of my life, I believe that education is equally important for building a secure future, so I’m doing my best to balance both.
Let’s rewind the tape — the beautiful game. How did football first find its way into your life? Was there a specific moment or influence that made you say, 'This is it. This is what I want to do competitively'?
I’ve loved playing football since I was little. I joined the futsal extracurricular program at school and started achieving success in inter school competitions. That motivated me to go further — beyond just school-level matches. Eventually, I tried out for a local club, Persija Barat, and that’s when I truly fell in love with the game.
In 2018, I had the opportunity to participate in the selection for the National Sports Week (PON), one of the biggest multi-sport events in Indonesia, representing DKI Jakarta — and I made the team. My family, especially my parents, have always supported me. They’re my biggest inspiration. I want to make them proud of everything I do in football.
Now, let’s talk about your current chapter: Spicegals FC. How did that move come about? And what’s it like representing the club in Malaysia — both on and off the field?
I was introduced to the opportunity by my good friend, Sabreena Dessler, who invited me to come play in Malaysia. At the time, there weren’t many well-structured competitions for women’s football in Indonesia, unlike the leagues here in Malaysia. Her offer sparked my interest, especially as a player who’s always looking for a proper competitive environment.
The beginning wasn’t easy — it was my first time playing abroad, and adapting to a new environment was challenging. But over time, I’ve started to settle in, improve my performance, and most importantly, enjoy the game here. I’m truly grateful for the experience.
Every team has its characters. Who's the biggest jokester in the dressing room? And who’s the serious one that keeps everyone in check?
Mas, Mat, and Kak Alisa — they definitely stand out in those roles. They bring so much personality to the team dynamic.
We’re just past the halfway mark in the season — what are your personal goals, and what would you love to accomplish with the team before the final whistle of the season?
My personal goal is to consistently give my best for the team — not just in matches, but also in training, preparation, and the way I carry myself as a teammate. Like every player, I have the ambition to contribute meaningfully and help the team succeed in every competition we enter. I believe that when each of us gives 100%, great things can happen. Ultimately, the dream we all share is to bring home a championship — and I’m fully committed to doing everything I can to help make that a reality.
Let’s get into the bigger picture. From your perspective, how does the women’s football scene in Malaysia compare to what you’ve experienced back home in Indonesia?
There are definitely clear differences. In Indonesia, there still aren’t many consistent competitions for women, whether at the senior or youth level. The highest levels usually involve multi-event tournaments or national team training camps.
Malaysia, on the other hand, already has structured leagues — both senior-level and U-15 —along with other competitions. That structure plays a huge role in the development and competitiveness of players in each country.
If you had the power to change just one thing about the women’s game in Indonesia — structurally, culturally, or financially — what would you improve first?
If given the chance, I’d focus on building a structured competition system— from grassroots to professional leagues. I know it would take time, but it has to start somewhere, even if it’s simple at first. It would also require a lot of support from various parties. I hold a big dream for the growth of women’s football in Indonesia, and a strong foundation of competition is where that begins.
Looking ahead — what’s next for Rihla? Are there dream clubs, national team goals, or personal milestones on the horizon?
As a footballer, I want to make the most of my prime years — the time when I’m physically strong, mentally focused, and fully committed to growth. These are the years where I believe I can reach my full potential, and I don’t want to let a single opportunity pass me by. My dream is to play at the highest level possible, whether that’s in a top domestic league or abroad, wherever the right chance comes along. I want to keep challenging myself in new environments, learning from every experience, and proving what I’m capable of.
One of my biggest ambitions is to wear the national team jersey. It would be an incredible honor to represent my country on the international stage — to stand side by side with the best, compete with pride, and inspire others back home. I know that goal requires dedication, discipline, and sacrifice, and I’m more than ready to put in the work. Every step I take now is a step toward that dream, and I’ll keep pushing forward until I get there.
Let’s say fast forward a few years — if the opportunity came, would you consider returning to Malaysia to play again? What has this experience meant to you?
If it’s the right step for my career, I would definitely return to play in Malaysia. And I’d make sure to give an even better version of myself next time. This experience has been invaluable and has taught me so much — both as a player and as a person.
And lastly, a heartfelt one: what would you like to say to the people who’ve been cheering you on since the beginning — your supporters, family, and fans across borders?
To everyone who has supported me — thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Whether you've been there from the start or joined the journey along the way, your support means everything. To my family especially, thank you for never giving up on me and always praying for me — everything I achieve is for you. To my fans, your encouragement keeps me going. I’m so grateful to have all of you behind me. Without you, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
