PUTRAJAYA – The Malaysia Hockey Confederation (MHC) is confident of the Speedy Tigers’ chances of securing qualification for the 2026 Hockey World Cup, set to be held in the Netherlands and Belgium in August.
MHC president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal said the squad under head coach Sarjit Singh have made thorough preparations across various aspects, including improving team performance during their recent European tour.
Subahan believes the players’ commitment and work ethic will translate into a markedly improved showing as Malaysia compete in the Men’s World Cup Qualifiers in Ismailia, Egypt, in March.
“God willing, I have never doubted the coach. As president, I take this matter seriously and we will always support our coaches and players.
“They have worked very hard and the coach has his own plans. They recently returned from Australia and we pray they will deliver their best. I always remain positive.
“Sometimes it is a matter of fate — we plan, but God determines. Whatever the case, I am fully confident that Sarjit and the players will give their best to qualify for the World Cup,” he said after the 71st MHC annual general meeting at Putrajaya today.
Malaysia have been drawn in Group B and will open their campaign against Austria on March 1, followed by Pakistan on March 2, before concluding the group stage against China on March 4.
Based on the current world rankings, Malaysia are the highest-ranked team in the group at 13th, followed by Pakistan (14th), Austria (21st) and China (23rd).
However, previous encounters suggest the matches will be closely contested, with all teams in with a realistic chance of progressing.
For the record, Malaysia last featured at the Hockey World Cup in 2023, where they finished 13th out of 15 teams. – January 31, 2026