KUALA LUMPUR: The Kuala Lumpur Junior World Cup is four months away, and organisation-wise, the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) is ready to deliver a gold-medal performance.
On Wednesday, a full fledged meeting was held, involving state presidents, various Police divisions, representatives from the Ministry of Education, Malaysia Airport, National Sports Council, National Sports Institute, Customs, Immigration and City Hall.
Officials in charge of transportation, accommodation, food and the secretariat were also present.
MHC president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal said: "We will be watched by the world. The 15 countries competing together with Malaysia will expect first class service from us. We will make their stay here as comfortable as possible apart from a top class tournament for them.
"I'm confident that we will not only meet all the requirements but will supercede as perfect hosts."
The National Stadium in Bukit Jalil will host the 16-team tournament, with Pitch I being used for matches. and Pitch II for warm-up.
Subahan hopes to see fans flock to the stadium not only to support the Malaysian team, but also to see top class matches from the other teams.
The national junior team played matches in Europe recently, losing four and winning only one. They were hammered 8-2 by Germany in their first match and the second German match was washed away by rain. They then lost 1-0 and 2-1 to France, and 3-1 to England. The only win was 3-2 against England.
The Sultan of Johor Cup from Oct 27-Nov 4 will be Malaysia's true measure of strength as they will be up against Germany, India, Pakistan, Australia, New Zealand, Britain and South Africa.
In the Junior World Cup, Malaysia are in Group A with Argentina, Australia and Chile. Group B has Germany, France, South Africa and Egypt.
In Group C are India, Spain, South Korea and Canada. Group D comprises the Netherlands, Belgium, Pakistan and New Zealand.