KUALA LUMPUR – Armed with fresh funding support, national head coach Ahmad Jais Baharun is planning an overseas training stint in Thailand as Malaysia steps up preparations for the Sepaktakraw World Cup ISTAF 2026.
The boost comes in the form of a RM2 million allocation from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to support the federation’s development agenda on April 14, alongside a RM1 million Matching Sports Grant approved by the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) to aid the team’s build-up to the global tournament.
Speaking to Scoop, Ahmad Jais revealed that plans are underway to organise a training stint in Thailand, although discussions with the federation’s top management are still ongoing before a final decision is made.
He said the squad had previously benefited from a training camp in Ratchaburi, and a similar approach could be adopted again, albeit at a different venue.
“We will hold further discussions with the president regarding our preparations ahead of the World Cup. Thailand is still our preferred option, but we may look at a different location this time,” he said.
Among the venues being considered is the Royal Thai Navy training base, which is believed to offer strong facilities and a highly competitive environment suited to the national squad’s needs.
Ahmad Jais added that the proposed camp is expected to take place about two weeks before the start of the tournament, allowing players to fine-tune their form under match-like conditions.
“If everything goes according to plan, we are targeting a two-week stint at the Royal Thai Navy ahead of the competition,” he said.
With the tournament drawing closer, he stressed that the team has now entered its final phase of preparation, with emphasis placed on sharpening tactical execution and strengthening on-court understanding among players.
He also underlined the importance of overseas exposure, noting that training abroad helps players adapt to the pace, pressure, and intensity of international competition.
“At this stage, our focus is on ensuring the players are fully prepared, both physically and mentally, before stepping onto the court,” he added. – April 16, 2026