KELANA JAYA: Dream of wearing the Harimau Malaya jersey and never stop believing.
That is the message from national team technical director Tan Cheng Hoe (pic) to aspiring young footballers across the country.
Amid growing concerns over the influx of mixed-heritage talents, Cheng Hoe urged local youths not to be disheartened, but instead inspire to fight for a place in the national team.
Malaysia named 14 locals from the Under-23 squad in the 38-man field for the Harimau Malaya’s centralised training camp ahead of their crucial 2027 Asian Cup qualifier against Vietnam on June 10 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
While that number shows promise, Cheng Hoe believes there’s still much work to be done to strengthen the local talent pipeline.
“We still lack Under-23 players with standout quality. That’s the reality,” said the 56-year-old who was appointed to the position last month.
“Young players must dream of representing Malaysia. Let’s not be negative, let’s stay hopeful and optimistic.”
He also acknowledged the disappointment surrounding the recent scrapping of the MFL Cup, a key developmental platform for youth players, but pointed to the A1 Semi-Pro League as a viable alternative.
“Yes, it’s a setback. But the A1 League gives these boys a new stage to prove themselves. What’s important is that they work hard to earn their place in the first eleven. There are no shortcuts in football. Only grit, belief, and discipline.”
Cheng Hoe is tasked to align both senior and youth team structures under the stewardship of national coach Peter Cklamovski.
“Our focus is on the future. Every coach has his own methods, and I respect that. Peter has brought a new style, as seen in the game against Nepal. We need to back him fully,” he added.
