How TNB's Thunderbolts Programme Is Powering The Next Generation Of Malaysian Hockey Stars
An effort to take Malaysia's hockey scene to the next level.
Cover image via TNB ThunderboltsIn 1975, Malaysia reached the semi-finals of the Men's Hockey World Cup, a historic run that placed us as the fourth-best in the world rankings
Over the decades, the Kelab Kilat Field where Malaysia secured that achievement has become more than just a playing pitch.
New generations of players have been given the chance to train and compete through structured initiatives like Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB)'s Thunderbolts programme — a long-term initiative that focuses on developing hockey talent from the grassroots level.
Image via Malaysian Hockey Confederation
Initially created as a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, the Thunderbolts programme has turned into one of Malaysia's strongest hockey development systems
Launched as part of TNB's CSR efforts in 2006, Thunderbolts has since become one of the most reliable sources of young hockey talent in the country.
The programme focuses on school outreach, training support, and match exposure.
Promising players receive access to coaching, equipment, and mentorship, with some gaining international experience through the Thunderbolts Cup.
Each year, more than 1,100 youth are reached, with around 120 players actively in development. Today, at least 20 national-level athletes trace their roots to the programme.
Thunderbolts helps bridge the gap between school-level players and national competition
One of the programmes key strengths is its continuity. Players start young, gain competitive experience through age-group tournaments, and then get scouted into senior clubs or national training pods.
Thunderbolts fields several teams annually across youth divisions, and many alumni also play in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL), reflecting the success of its structured progression model.
In 2024, the Thunderbolts six-a-side tournament returned with over 1,200 youth participants
The first iteration since 2019, the tournament took place from 28 to 29 December at Kelab Kilat Field.
It drew 121 teams across Under-12 and Under-18 categories for both boys and girls, highlighting not only emerging talent but also the enthusiasm that still surrounds school-level hockey in Malaysia.
Top finishers included teams like SSTMI Thunderbolts, Zaba Boys, Ber-1 Girls, and Nine Members.
Image via TNB Thunderbolts
And to illustrate TNB's expertise in maximising talent, they won the 2025 Malaysia Indoor Hockey League (MIHL) in eye-opening fashion
After going down 3-0 in the final against Maybank, the TNB men's team dug deep to equalise the scoreline before winning 2-1 in a shootout and becoming eventual champions.
The performance reflected years of steady development under experienced coaching, and was also a showcase of Thunderbolts-trained talent rising to the occasion, with players like Muhammad Nursyahmi Zulkifli stepping up in crucial moments.
The programme has also received a further boost with the addition of Nor Saiful Zaini, who now oversees youth players
Image via Malaysian Hockey Confederation
In May 2025, Saiful Zaini — a veteran coach within TNB's Thunderbolts system and former national hockey icon — was appointed Head Coach of the Malaysia National Junior Team.
His transition from leading grassroots development under TNB to shaping the national junior squad reflects a unified vision for Malaysia's hockey future.
As a player, Saiful Zaini represented the country at multiple Olympics and World Cups, admired for his sharp attacking instincts, consistency, and game sense.
His notable achievements include:
- Captain of the Malaysian team during the 1993 Champions Trophy in Kuala Lumpur
- Part of the 1990 Asian All Star Team
- Names as a World Best Eleven Player
- Flagbearer for Malaysia at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics
His connection to the TNB and the Thunderbolts system runs deep. Over the years, Saiful Zaini has worked closely with TNB's development players, helping to shape training standards and identify top prospects.
Now, as national junior coach, he plays a key role in aligning grassroots development with national goals, ensuring that young athletes are not only technically prepared but also mentally ready for international play.
All this is in preparation for what comes next, which is to help Malaysia's next generation of hockey stars shine on the global stage
Image via TNB Thunderbolts
Since its launch, Thunderbolts has trained hundreds of youth athletes, many of whom have gone on to play professionally or represent the country on the international stage.
That momentum continues to grow. The upcoming International Thunderbolts Cup will provide another valuable platform for emerging players to demonstrate their abilities and gain experience against international competition.
Adding to the excitement, Malaysia will host the FIH Hockey Men's Nations Cup from 15 to 21 June 2025 at the Bukit Jalil National Hockey Stadium.
This prestigious tournament will bring top teams from around the world to Kuala Lumpur, offering young local players a rare opportunity to witness elite hockey up close.
With continued collaboration between TNB, the government, schools, and the Malaysian Hockey Confederation, the pathway for homegrown athletes is becoming stronger than ever, with more opportunities being created for them to reach greater heights.
