Chiefs sent Malope to AmaBhubesi for the season to gain experience in the National First Division, having also farmed him out to Moroka Swallows in 2015/16.
The 22-year-old was a key factor in Thanda's NFD triumph, making 19 league appearances and notably scoring the opener in the club's promotion-clinching 2-1 win over Stellenbosch FC on Wednesday.
Malope, who only played for Amakhosi in the MultiChoice Diski Challenge under Arthur Zwane, is unsure where he will be in 2017/18.
"I'm still contracted to Chiefs but we'll see what happens. As of now I'm still focused here," Malope tells snl24.com/kickoff.
"I can't confirm if I'll remain here at Thanda, but if ever they still want my services I can still come here and play.
"Of course as a player you always love to play because I know if I come here I'd play regularly. But if Chiefs give me game-time then I don't have a choice, I have to stay there if they still require my services."
Meanwhile, the midfielder is enjoying the fruits of Thanda's efforts under coach Roger Sikhakhane. The coastal side have only lost once in 27 games and are unbeaten at home.
"The excitement is huge because, from day one, when I came to Richards Bay, my main objective was to come here and add some value and win the league obviously," he adds.
"So winning it brings a lot of excitement. I'm happy for myself that I'm part of something that is so beautiful as this by taking Thanda to the PSL next season."
