KUALA LUMPUR – The Kuala Lumpur Hockey Association (KLHA) is set to play a pivotal role in nurturing top-tier Malaysian hockey players by launching the nation’s first indoor hockey league.
The initiative aims to elevate the profile of indoor hockey, especially given its regular inclusion in the SEA Games, and provide a platform for school and university students to actively participate in the sport.
KLHA president I. Vikneswaran emphasised the significance of developing indoor hockey talent.
“Indoor hockey has been featured in the SEA Games for a considerable time, and we aspire to nurture talented players who can eventually represent our country on the international stage in the game.
“Many players cannot afford to play outdoor hockey due to its high costs. Promoting indoor hockey is a cost-effective alternative.
“Our association is dedicated to contributing the best we can for the sport’s improvement in the country, and we believe the establishment of this league is a stepping stone for Malaysia’s indoor hockey to reach greater heights,” said Vikneswaran during a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium today.
Vikneswaran also said that KLHA was actively collaborating with partners to identify suitable venues for the league, with plans to involve a total of 20 teams from around the Klang Valley.
“As the talent pool in Kuala Lumpur is substantial, we aim to capitalise on this by finding the perfect location to run various indoor hockey programmes and the league.
“We have a close relationship with Kuala Lumpur City Hall and are working together to identify an ideal location, ensuring ease of access for players.
“We are placing greater emphasis on encouraging young teams, especially those from sports schools and universities, to participate in the league. We are exploring venues such as UTC Sentul or Titiwangsa to get the league up and running,” Vikneswaran added.
Indoor hockey was introduced at the SEA Games in 2017 in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia have since achieved notable success, securing two gold medals in 2017 and 2019 (Manila) and a silver in 2023 (Phnom Penh) in the competition. – January 1, 2024