KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s junior hockey team is aiming to recreate the multi-ethnic strength that once made the nation a force in the sport, blending Indian, Punjabi, Chinese, and Malay talents to form a powerhouse squad.
Speaking to reporters at the Bukit Jalil National Hockey Stadium today, national junior coach Nor Saiful Zaini Nasiruddin said the diversity of playing styles among different ethnic groups is crucial to building a team that can compete at the highest level.
“Each of these players brings unique skills to the field, and when combined with our Malay players, they form a strong, cohesive unit,” he said.
“It’s sad that this isn’t happening as it once did. Back in the day, players like S. Kuhan, Chua Boon Huat, and other multiracial talents emerged from the youth ranks.
“Today, that mix of talent and unity across all races is missing, and it’s something I’ve been determined to restore since coming on board in the middle of last year.”
Nor Saiful also stressed that while Malaysia’s juniors are technically skilled, they still need exposure to European hockey standards, where physicality, speed, and playing style are more demanding.
“To prepare our juniors for international success, we need them to play more European teams and match their standards,” he said.
“We often control the game, but against teams like South Africa or England, we struggle to convert possession into victories. Regular exposure is essential to bridge that gap.”
He emphasised the importance of nurturing talent while maintaining discipline and patience. Fast-tracking young players into senior squads, integrating multi-ethnic talent, and giving them experience against top-level international opponents are all central to the plan ahead of upcoming tournaments, including World Cup qualifiers.
“This is about building a united, talented squad capable of competing globally,” he added.
“Talent can come from anywhere — any school, any region. What matters is commitment, skill, and the willingness to embrace diversity. That unity — across talent, culture, and style will shape the future of Malaysian hockey.”
Nor Saiful, who was appointed in May last year on a three-year deal, faced a tough task of building a competitive team with just six months for the Junior World Cup (JWC), which took place in Chennai and Madurai in November last year.
The Young Tigers failed to qualify for the quarterfinals of the JWC after losing 3-1 to England in their knockout match.
Nor Saiful, who replaced I. Vikneswaran, had coached the junior side from 2016 to 2020 before stepping down to focus on grassroots development and leading the Tenaga Nasional team in the domestic league. - April 3, 2026
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