They were outnumbered and miles from their homeland, but they were loud and proud.
The more than 50 local Malaysian immigrants who supported each other when they arrived in New Zealand offered the same support to the Malaysian hockey team.
The team played against the New Zealand Black Sticks men at Fitzherbert Park last night and on Sunday afternoon.
Over the more than 1000 Kiwi voices at the game rang out a chant: "When Malaysia comes on to the pitch, everyone will look because we will definitely win."
The Massey University president of the Malaysian student association, Iylia Ungku, rallied Malaysian students from the campus to get the flags out, roll up and show their support.
Other Malaysian families in the city joined the group.
"It was so exciting because it was the first time we had seen the Malaysian hockey team," Mr Ungku said.
"It was like a taste of home right here in Palmerston North."
The supporters were welcomed by the team after the games for a photo session and to get autographs.
- Manawatu Standard
