The Selangor Turf Club (STC) in Malaysia has established the country’s only apprentice jockey school, founded in January 2020 to nurture young local talents into professional riders. Inspired by training programs from Japan and Hong Kong, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum combining practical horsemanship with lessons in English, nutrition, fitness, financial management, and communication skills. This holistic approach aims to develop well-rounded jockeys capable of competing internationally. The school admits a small, selective intake annually, primarily young Malaysians aged 18 to 26, many of whom come from Kelantan, a region with a rich equestrian heritage.

Since its inception, the school has enrolled 27 students, with a majority being Kelantanese, reflecting the region’s traditional affinity for horse riding and horseback archery. Students undergo rigorous training including mechanical horse simulators, race practice, and stress management, alongside academic lessons. After two to three years of schooling, apprentices enter a five-year apprenticeship with licensed trainers before becoming professional jockeys. The school not only preserves the legacy of horse racing in Malaysia but also provides a clear career path for aspiring jockeys, emphasizing discipline, resilience, and professionalism.