KUALA LUMPUR – Despite qualifying for the 2026 Hockey World Cup, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the Speedy Tigers to sharpen their game and lift their performance ahead of the global tournament in the Netherlands and Belgium from August 14–30.
Malaysia secured their World Cup spot following a tense qualifying campaign in Ismailia, Egypt.
The team secured a hard-fought 5–4 victory over China in their final group match before suffering a heavy 7–1 semi-final defeat to England. I
In the third-place playoff against Japan, Malaysia narrowly lost 4–5 in a thrilling encounter.
Crucially, Malaysia’s world ranking ensured its World Cup berth.
As the highest-ranked fourth-placed side across the qualifiers, the Speedy Tigers clinched the final slot for the 16-team tournament, edging out rivals such as Wales and Poland.
“This is a remarkable achievement, but there is still room for improvement as the team prepares to face the world’s best,” the Prime Minister wrote on his official Facebook page.
“I am confident all Malaysians will rally behind our players in the lead-up to the World Cup.”
In a separate message, Datuk Seri Anwar also congratulated track cycling star Datuk Azizulhasni Awang for his triumph in the keirin at the 2026 UCI Track Cycling World Cup in Perth, Australia.
The 38-year-old edged out Great Britain’s Matthew Richardson by a mere 0.002 seconds, while Australia’s Leigh Hoffman claimed third, finishing 0.080 seconds behind.
“I pray that The Pocket Rocketman continues to excel and brings even more glory to the nation in future championships,” the Prime Minister added. – March 8, 2026