HANGZHOU: "Don't be afraid of your rivals."
Olympic Council of Malaysia president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria made this roaring call when he visited the national men's hockey team in Hangzhou on Saturday.
World No. 10 Malaysia will open their Asian Games Group B campaign against minnows Thailand on Sunday.
The Speedy Tigers' target is gold, which would secure them an automatic spot in next year's Paris Olympics.
Malaysia have not qualified for the Olympics since the 2000 Sydney Games.
Norza reminded the players to prepare for every match with a winning mentality.
"No matter their ranking, whether it is South Korea or India, Malaysia must step onto the pitch without fear," said Norza.
Norza is confident that the hockey team will perform well until the final whistle in each match.
"I believe the Speedy Tigers are prepared to face any team. Approaching each match with a no-fear attitude and confidence will help the team achieve their target," he added.
Following their match against Thailand, A. Arul Selvaraj's side will take on Oman on Sept 26, Indonesia (Sept 28), South Korea (Sept 30) and China (Oct 2).
While Malaysia are expected to secure victories against Thailand, Oman and Indonesia easily, they may face some resistance from South Korea and China in the remaining group matches.
Securing the top spot in the group is crucial to avoid world No. 3 India, who are expected to top Group A, in the semi-finals.
Five years ago, Malaysia lost to Japan in the final in Indonesia.